The federal government has reassured the public that petrol and diesel supplies remain at “comfortable” levels despite ongoing regional and global uncertainties in the oil market.
A meeting of the Cabinet Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices, chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, reviewed petroleum product stocks, supply arrangements, and import plans.
The Committee noted that diesel stocks provide approximately 23–24 days of cover, while petrol availability remains at a comfortable level.
Crude oil stocks currently offer about 11 days of cover, with additional cargoes in transit and committed volumes expected to maintain refinery operations and product availability through April.
The Petroleum Division briefed the Committee that April import plans are being actively managed, with significant volumes secured through commercial and government-to-government engagements. Refinery operations are being maintained at optimal levels, with efforts to maximize throughput and support domestic demand.
Members discussed volatility in international oil markets, noting recent increases in benchmark prices and cargo premiums due to regional developments. Procurement strategies under existing contracts, including government-backed arrangements, were reviewed to ensure favorable pricing and supply security.
Operational aspects of fuel imports such as shipping, insurance, and logistics were also considered, with the Committee emphasizing commercial prudence, transparency, and uninterrupted supply. Domestic demand patterns were reviewed, with authorities directed to monitor distribution closely and discourage speculative stockholding.
The Committee further discussed digital monitoring of the petroleum supply chain, fuel specification and pricing optimization, and the development of a strategic petroleum reserves framework, in line with directions from the Prime Minister.
Chairing the meeting, Finance Minister Senator Aurangzeb reiterated that ensuring the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products across the country remains a top government priority, despite challenging international market conditions.
The meeting was attended by Federal Ministers Ali Pervaiz Malik, Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry (virtually), and Jam Kamal Khan (virtually), along with federal secretaries and senior officials from relevant ministries, divisions, and regulatory authorities.
