The federal government held a high-level meeting in Karachi to assess Pakistan’s energy supply situation and evaluate the potential economic impact of rising global oil prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Senior officials reviewed developments in international markets and discussed how the ongoing conflict involving major regional powers could disrupt global energy supply chains. The meeting focused on ensuring stable fuel availability within the country while preparing contingency measures to manage possible supply shocks. Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining economic stability during this uncertain global energy environment.
The meeting brought together key policymakers including Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik. During the session, officials closely examined regional developments and assessed their possible implications for Pakistan’s energy imports and domestic fuel availability. Participants expressed concern that further escalation in the Middle East could drive global crude oil prices to nearly $120 per barrel. Such a rise would significantly increase Pakistan’s import costs and place additional pressure on the country’s fragile economic recovery.
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Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik informed the meeting that three petrol cargoes are expected to reach Pakistan by Monday, which will help maintain adequate fuel supply in the coming days. He assured participants that authorities are actively monitoring the national fuel stock position to prevent shortages. Officials also discussed the recent surge in international oil prices caused by rising geopolitical tensions and disruptions in energy transportation routes. The government recently increased petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre to reflect the sharp rise in global market rates.
Meanwhile, policymakers discussed possible emergency fuel conservation strategies to ensure existing petroleum reserves remain available for essential sectors and critical economic activities. Officials highlighted that careful management of fuel consumption could help extend available reserves during periods of supply uncertainty. Additionally, authorities stressed the need to maintain uninterrupted energy supply to industries, transportation networks and other vital sectors. Such measures aim to prevent disruptions that could slow economic activity and increase inflationary pressure across the country.
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Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb told participants that the government is closely monitoring global energy markets and preparing financial strategies to handle the impact of rising oil prices. He warned that Pakistan’s monthly oil import bill could increase by nearly $600 million if international prices continue climbing. In response, the government has intensified diplomatic engagement with energy-producing countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. These efforts aim to secure alternative fuel supply routes that bypass the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah emphasized that keeping economic activity running smoothly remains the government’s top priority despite growing global uncertainties. The meeting also decided to establish a joint monitoring dashboard with provincial authorities to track fuel reserves and prevent hoarding at petrol stations. Officials agreed that stronger coordination between federal and provincial governments will help manage the evolving situation more effectively. Through improved monitoring and cooperation, authorities aim to ensure stable fuel distribution and protect the national economy from energy shocks.