Qatar LNG Supply to Pakistan Disrupted Amid War
Pakistan may face disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies from Qatar due to ongoing regional conflict, according to sources in the Petroleum Division Pakistan.
Officials said Pakistan has been informed by Qatargas that LNG deliveries could remain suspended until the current war situation in the region subsides.
Pakistan Faces LNG Shortfall After Qatar Supply Halt
Sources stated that Pakistan was scheduled to receive eight LNG cargoes from Qatar during the month of March. However, only two cargoes have arrived so far.
The remaining six shipments were expected to arrive on March 7, 11, 12, 16, 20, and 21. Due to the disruption, authorities said Pakistan may have to implement LNG load management measures to maintain supply stability.
According to officials, with careful load management, available LNG reserves could remain sufficient until around March 20 or 21.
Energy authorities warned that LNG shortages could affect several sectors in Pakistan, including the industrial sector and other consumers that rely heavily on imported natural gas.
Jam Kamal Says Alternative Energy Options Available
The possible supply disruption comes at a time when Pakistan depends significantly on LNG imports to meet domestic energy demand.
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan said that LNG imports from Qatar are expected to resume and that Pakistan continues to rely on Qatari supplies.
Speaking to media outside the Parliament House Islamabad, the minister said LNG for Pakistan is scheduled to come from Qatar and will ultimately arrive from the same source.
However, he noted that alternative fuel options are also available to manage the situation if disruptions continue.
Government Warns LNG Load Management May Be Required
Jam Kamal said the responsibility for exports and imports lies with shipping lines, emphasizing that they must ensure the continuity of cargo transportation.
The minister also pointed to emerging economic impacts related to shipping and logistics. He said increased risk insurance premiums for containers and other associated costs have started to show negative effects on trade.
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According to Jam Kamal, the entire region has been affected by the current conflict, as it represents a crucial route for trade and energy supply.
He noted that many countries that rely on energy resources from the Gulf region could also face disruptions.
The minister added that goods transportation and shipping in the region previously benefited from relatively smooth logistics and operational convenience.
However, he said rising insurance and logistics costs are now beginning to affect trade flows and supply chains.
While some alternative arrangements for certain commodities may be possible, Jam Kamal acknowledged that several factors remain beyond the control of Pakistan’s authorities.
