Pakistan has been forced to rely on expensive spot market imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) after QatarEnergy extended the force majeure imposed following the attack on its Ras Laffan LNG production complex. The extension is expected to increase Pakistan’s energy import costs and place additional pressure on the country’s fuel supply.
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According to official information, QatarEnergy has prolonged the force majeure until the end of August 2026, delaying the restoration of LNG shipments under existing long-term supply agreements. The disruption has compelled Pakistan to secure LNG cargoes from the international spot market, where prices are significantly higher than those agreed under long-term contracts.
Federal Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Ali Pervaiz Malik said the government expects regular LNG deliveries from Qatar to resume if the force majeure is lifted in September. He noted that Pakistan remains in close contact with Qatari authorities while monitoring developments related to the production facility.
The minister said the temporary disruption has created challenges for meeting domestic gas demand, particularly during periods of high consumption. Purchasing LNG from the spot market ensures continuity of supply but comes at a considerably higher cost, increasing the financial burden on the energy sector.
Pakistan depends heavily on imported LNG to supplement local natural gas production and meet the requirements of households, industries and power generation. Any interruption in long-term contracted supplies can affect fuel availability and increase import expenses, making spot purchases necessary to avoid shortages.
Energy analysts say prolonged disruptions in global LNG supplies can expose importing countries to price volatility and higher procurement costs. They note that restoring stable deliveries under long-term contracts would help reduce uncertainty and ease pressure on Pakistan’s energy import bill.
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The government has expressed hope that normal LNG supplies from Qatar will resume once the force majeure ends. Until then, officials say Pakistan will continue arranging alternative cargoes to maintain gas availability and minimize disruptions to consumers and industrial users.