ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has secured its petroleum supplies until April 25, with refineries operating at 80-100 percent capacity and diversified imports ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability despite regional geopolitical tensions.
Officials from the Petroleum Division told this correspondent Thursday the country is currently facing no shortage of petroleum products, as improved inventory management and timely import decisions have strengthened supply chains. A key factor has been Pakistan’s shift towards alternative sources, including increased imports of petrol and diesel from Oman.
During March, Pakistan imported three cargoes of petrol and one cargo of diesel from Omani ports, with two more petrol cargoes expected before the end of the month, further boosting domestic reserves.
State-owned Pakistan State Oil (PSO) is also in active discussions with Oman Trading International (OQT) to explore the possibility of securing additional cargoes to meet the rising energy demand.
Officials said Pak-Arab Refinery Company (PARCO), the country’s largest refinery, is currently operating at 100pc capacity. While it holds crude oil stocks sufficient for about 15 days, incoming shipments will extend its supply coverage through April 25. Meanwhile, National Refinery Limited (NRL) and Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) are operating at around 80pc capacity, a significant improvement from their earlier utilisation levels of 50-60pc, reflecting better crude availability.
Officials attributed stable supply situation to swift policy actions following the February 28 conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, which had raised concerns about possible disruptions in global oil supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.
In response, Pakistani authorities quickly arranged alternative crude shipments from key regional hubs, including Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates and Yanbu in Saudi Arabia, ensuring continuity of supply. Officials noted these proactive measures have enabled Pakistan to maintain stable fuel availability, even as some regional markets, including India and Bangladesh, face tighter supply conditions.
