Business

Govt Tightens Monitoring of Fuel Stocks to Avoid Disaster

The Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices, constituted by the Prime Minister in light of the emerging regional situation, met again today under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, at the Finance Division.

The Committee continued its review of the evolving regional and global energy situation, conducting a detailed assessment of petroleum stock levels and supply chains across the country.

Participants were briefed on national stock levels of crude oil and refined petroleum products—including petrol, diesel, aviation fuels, and LPG—along with their respective days of cover and daily consumption patterns.

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The meeting also examined developments in global oil markets, including international benchmark price movements, freight and insurance costs, shipping route dynamics, and the situation in key maritime corridors. The Committee noted that the international energy environment remains volatile, particularly given uncertainties surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and its potential impact on global energy trade.

The Committee reviewed developments in LNG and LPG markets as well. While LNG imports under long-term contracts remain a key component of Pakistan’s energy supply, potential disruptions in regional shipping routes could affect global LNG logistics. LPG inflows through cross-border channels are also being closely monitored to ensure uninterrupted domestic availability.

A range of contingency measures to strengthen supply security were discussed, including engagement with international partners and exploration of alternative sourcing routes. Members were briefed on ongoing diplomatic and commercial efforts with friendly countries to secure additional crude and petroleum supplies where necessary.

The Committee also noted efforts to diversify procurement through regional energy hubs, including potential arrangements via ports in the Red Sea and Gulf region, to maintain refinery operations and ensure supply resilience.

Energy conservation measures were reviewed as part of broader contingency planning to manage demand efficiently while maintaining orderly market conditions. The Committee emphasized that, while supply conditions remain stable, prudent energy use at all levels will enhance national preparedness in case international uncertainties persist.

The Finance Minister stressed that ensuring uninterrupted availability of petroleum products remains the Government’s top priority and will continue to guide all policy decisions. He reiterated that the Committee is monitoring developments daily and is prepared to take timely, coordinated measures to safeguard national energy security and maintain domestic market stability.

The Committee also highlighted the importance of preventing hoarding, diversion, or smuggling of petroleum products, particularly during periods of international volatility. Relevant authorities have been directed to maintain heightened vigilance and strengthen coordination with provincial governments.

It was further decided that Chief Secretaries of all provinces will participate in the Committee’s meeting tomorrow to deliberate on the final summary and proposed national action plan. The Committee will continue its work to finalize a comprehensive strategy for nationwide implementation with cooperation from all stakeholders.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, along with federal secretaries and senior officials from relevant ministries, divisions, and regulatory bodies.

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