Govt assures ample fuel stocks amid regional uncertainty

March 16, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan’s fuel supply situation remains stable, with sufficient petroleum stocks available to meet national demand through March, while import arrangements are already in place to ensure continued availability into April.

The update was shared during the latest review of petroleum price monitoring, where the government assessed stock levels, import plans, and supply chain logistics amid evolving regional conditions affecting global energy markets.

The session was chaired by Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, and was attended by key government officials including Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for Petroleum, and Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs.

The Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan and senior representatives from relevant ministries and regulatory bodies also participated.

During the briefing, authorities provided a detailed overview of the country’s current petroleum inventory, covering both crude oil and refined products.

The fuel requirements for March have been fully secured, while current cargo schedules and supply arrangements provide coverage through mid-April.

The government is also working to further extend supply coverage towards the end of April through additional import planning and cargo management.

The country currently maintains comfortable stock levels of key petroleum products, supported by scheduled imports and coordinated logistics planning designed to ensure uninterrupted supply across the country.

In addition to stock availability, the review also examined procurement strategies and maritime logistics in response to ongoing regional developments that could affect international shipping routes and energy flows.

Emphasized the importance of diversifying supply sources to strengthen Pakistan’s energy security and reduce reliance on any single import corridor.

The procurement strategies are already shifting toward broader sourcing from global markets in order to enhance the resilience of the national fuel supply chain.

Speaking during the session, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said the government remains focused on maintaining uninterrupted fuel availability across the country and reassured the public that current stock levels and supply outlook remain stable.

He stressed that there is no justification for panic buying or unnecessary fuel hoarding, as the existing inventory and incoming cargo shipments are sufficient to meet national demand.

The authorities were also directed to coordinate closely with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and provincial governments to continuously monitor stock levels and market activity.

Any attempts to create artificial shortages or hoard petroleum products will be dealt with strictly under the law.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to maintaining stability in the energy market, the finance minister instructed relevant ministries, regulators, and agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure rigorous monitoring of supply flows.

The monitoring committee will continue its daily reviews of petroleum stocks, import schedules, and market conditions to ensure the fuel supply chain remains smooth and public confidence in the availability of petroleum products is maintained.

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