Ali Pervaiz Malik, Pakistan’s Petroleum Minister, announced that three petrol cargoes are expected to arrive in the country by Monday. The statement comes amid growing concerns that escalating tensions in the Middle East could affect fuel supplies and push global crude prices higher.
High-Level Meeting on Energy Situation
The minister made the announcement during a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister House in Karachi, which reviewed the regional situation and its potential impact on Pakistan’s energy supply and economy. The meeting included Murad Ali Shah, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, Secretary Energy Shuhab Ansari, and other officials.
Officials were briefed on the rising global oil prices, the country’s current fuel reserves, and contingency measures to ensure uninterrupted supply. The federal government had recently increased petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre due to surging international prices driven by the US‑Israel conflict with Iran.
Potential Impact on Economy
The meeting highlighted that if the Middle East conflict escalates further, crude oil prices could reach $120 per barrel, putting additional pressure on Pakistan’s economy. Finance officials noted that such a surge could raise the country’s monthly oil import bill by up to $600 million, affecting the external account.
Energy Conservation and Supply Coordination
Petroleum Minister Malik stressed the importance of fuel conservation to ensure existing reserves last longer and remain available for essential sectors. The participants also discussed emergency measures to manage fuel consumption and maintain economic activity.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah meets Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik at the CM House to review the impact of escalating tensions in Iran on Pakistan’s energy supplies and overall economy. pic.twitter.com/u5oGRoVx4H
— Sindh Chief Minister House (@SindhCMHouse) March 8, 2026
The meeting highlighted Qatar’s recent force majeure declaration affecting LNG supplies and ongoing diplomatic efforts with Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE to secure alternative fuel routes outside the Strait of Hormuz. Coordination between federal and provincial authorities was also emphasized to prevent hoarding and ensure smooth distribution across Pakistan.
Next Steps
The proposals and measures discussed in the meeting will be presented to the federal cabinet for further deliberation. Officials agreed to maintain close cooperation between federal and provincial governments to manage the evolving energy situation effectively and safeguard Pakistan’s economic stability.
With the three petrol cargoes expected soon, authorities hope to ease short-term supply concerns while monitoring the international energy market closely.
