Pakistan Maintains Stable Fuel Supply Despite Gulf Tensions, Government Assures Public
Islamabad – Pakistan’s government is actively monitoring fuel prices and availability on a daily basis amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated on Tuesday. Despite recent price hikes and austerity measures, officials assure the public that current petroleum product stocks are sufficient to meet demand through March and April, with efforts underway to secure additional supplies.
Monitoring and Supply Chain Assessment
A committee chaired by Finance Minister Aurangzeb is conducting daily reviews of the energy supply situation and assessing developments in global oil and gas markets. According to a statement from the finance ministry posted on X, the committee undertook a forward-looking assessment of the national petroleum supply outlook, reviewing stock availability of crude oil and refined petroleum products across the energy value chain.
The assessment revealed that overall inventories remain at comfortable levels, supported by secured import arrangements and ongoing production. Supply lines from import terminals to refineries, storage installations, and retail outlets are reported to be operating in a “stable and orderly manner,” ensuring continuity of supply across the country.
Secured Cargoes and Refinery Operations
Cargo inflows are continuing as scheduled, and petrol cargoes for both March and April have “largely been secured,” with additional shipments planned to further strengthen supply buffers. Refineries are currently operating at regular production levels, with efforts focused on maintaining optimal throughput and efficient processing of incoming crude.
Government Response to Global Volatility
The government is actively evaluating price divergence between international and domestic markets to support balanced and timely policy calibration. Emphasis has been placed on operational readiness across the domestic energy chain, with a directive to refineries to maintain optimal throughput levels to sustain supply stability and reduce systemic vulnerabilities.
the Committee is reviewing ongoing government-to-government engagements aimed at strengthening supply resilience and mitigating risks. This includes diversified sourcing strategies and logistical arrangements with key partner countries to secure crude and refined products, enhance storage and transshipment options, and ensure flexibility in procurement and financing mechanisms.
Financial Measures and Conservation Efforts
Earlier this month, the government hiked the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel by Rs55 per litre to manage the impact of regional instability on global oil prices. Subsequently, unprecedented austerity measures were announced, including a 50% cut in fuel allowance for official vehicles and a four-day work week, with 50% of public sector staff working from home (excluding essential services).
The government also appealed to the public to adopt fuel-conservation measures to avert potential supply disruptions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced an increase in the levy on high-octane fuel by Rs200 per litre on Sunday.
On Sunday, Finance Minister Aurangzeb stated that the government absorbed a burden of Rs69 billion to maintain stability in petroleum product prices and provide maximum possible relief to the public amid rising global pressures.
Looking Ahead
Finance Minister Aurangzeb expressed optimism that the energy supply situation would improve by April, reiterating the government’s commitment to minimizing financial pressure on citizens. He directed all relevant authorities to continue vigilant monitoring of international developments, stock levels, and supply chain dynamics to ensure timely and coordinated policy responses. Ensuring the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products remains the government’s foremost priority.
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