Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has issued a warning about a potential gas shortage in Pakistan during the upcoming winter, attributing the risk to disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies from Qatar. He emphasized that the government is actively considering steps to ease the impact on consumers.
Speaking at a public event in Lahore, Malik confirmed that the government is taking measures to secure sufficient gas availability. He has briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the necessary actions to be taken to prevent supply difficulties during the colder months. The minister stressed the importance of timely intervention to avoid complications in gas procurement.
This announcement comes amid growing concerns over interruptions in LNG deliveries from Qatar, which have raised alarms about possible shortages as winter approaches. Malik revealed that he has submitted proposals aimed at providing relief to gas consumers, similar to the subsidies currently offered on petrol. However, he noted that final decisions rest with the prime minister and the cabinet, and he refrained from disclosing details before official approval.
Regarding liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), Malik stated that the government is working to ensure adequate supplies. He explained that Saudi Aramco, which sets the Saudi Contract Price (CP) for LPG, recently raised the price from $640 to $705 per tonne. This increase in the international benchmark compelled the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to raise domestic LPG cylinder prices accordingly.
Malik conveyed to the prime minister the necessary steps to maintain sufficient LPG stocks, and a summary has been submitted to the cabinet to expedite arrangements for importing LPG from abroad. He warned that without prompt action, Pakistan could face shortages of both gas and the vessels needed to transport it. He highlighted the challenge of storage capacity, describing it as a longstanding issue persisting for 70 years, while noting his relatively short tenure of about a year and a half in office.
The minister also pointed out that OGRA regulates the price of locally produced gas, whose output has significantly declined in recent times.
On the topic of rising petroleum prices, Malik acknowledged the public’s difficulties due to increased international oil rates. He assured that the government plans to provide relief once global prices ease. The ongoing Rs100-per-litre fuel subsidy scheme remains in effect, benefiting over nine million registered vehicle owners.
Malik further addressed regional tensions, noting that Pakistan and its neighbors are navigating a challenging period marked by conflict. He referenced a recent attack by the Houthis on oil facilities in Riyadh and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to stand by Saudi Arabia under the Makkah Agreement. Additionally, he mentioned cooperation with Türkiye to support Saudi Arabia during this crisis.
He called on political leaders to set aside differences and unite for the national interest, emphasizing the need for all institutions and political factions to collaborate in safeguarding the country’s borders. Malik also raised concerns about a resurgence of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging unity to confront this threat. He stressed that terrorism should be addressed decisively rather than exploited for political gain, affirming that the state possesses all necessary powers to counter such challenges.
Finally, Malik paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the armed forces and assured that both the government and military leadership are committed to eradicating terrorism from the country.
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