Pakistan’s oil companies have warned of a possible petrol supply shortage in the country, urging the government to take immediate measures as fuel stocks have fallen to critically low levels.
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The Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) informed the Petroleum Division that the country currently has petrol reserves sufficient for only around 15 days. In a letter marked “extremely urgent” and addressed to Energy Minister (Petroleum Division) Ali Pervaiz Malik on July 15, the industry body highlighted serious concerns over the availability of motor spirit (MS).
According to the advisory council, Pakistan currently holds around 370,000 metric tonnes of petrol, which is enough to meet national demand for approximately two weeks. The companies warned that without timely government intervention, fuel supplies across the country could face disruptions.
The oil industry pointed out several factors contributing to the situation, including delays in customs clearance of imported petroleum products through the WeBOC system. Companies said that if three imported petrol cargoes fail to arrive on schedule, the country’s fuel supply chain could come under significant pressure.
Oil companies also raised concerns over financial challenges, stating that outstanding payments worth around Rs66.7 billion have created difficulties for businesses operating in the sector. They said limited fuel reserves, rising demand, delays in imports, and financial constraints could collectively affect smooth petroleum distribution.
The development comes as oil marketing companies have already reduced fuel supplies to some petrol stations. The Petroleum Dealers Association Central Punjab recently claimed that petrol stations in several areas were receiving reduced quantities due to higher global crude oil prices and supply challenges.
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Oil companies have called for immediate steps to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability, including faster customs processing and resolution of financial issues. They warned that failure to address these concerns could create pressure on petrol supplies and impact consumers across the country.
The government has yet to announce a detailed response to the concerns raised by oil companies.