Pakistan says fuel stocks 'stable' amid regional energy volatility

Pakistan’s government said on Monday that national petroleum stocks remain at comfortable levels as it continues daily reviews of the energy sector amid regional volatility.

The Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices in the Wake of the Emerging Situation in the Region, constituted by the prime minister and chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met to assess developments and national preparedness measures, according to an official statement.

The committee reviewed the evolving regional and global energy situation and examined petroleum stock positions across the country.

Officials presented a comprehensive briefing on national inventories of crude oil and refined petroleum products, ongoing import arrangements and supply chain logistics. The briefing included details of shipments currently en route and additional cargoes being arranged to strengthen reserves.

The committee noted that petroleum stocks remain at “comfortable levels” and that supply chains are functioning smoothly, with multiple cargoes and import arrangements in place to ensure continuity of supply in the coming weeks.

Members were also briefed on recent volatility in global crude and refined petroleum product prices, which officials said had fluctuated significantly in recent days due to geopolitical developments in the region.

The committee reviewed international market indicators, including benchmark crude movements and refined product price trends, and assessed possible scenarios for global energy markets.

It noted that the government is closely monitoring international price developments and conducting ongoing scenario planning to safeguard domestic energy security and economic stability.

The meeting also reviewed logistical and operational arrangements for crude imports, refinery operations and maritime transportation, including coordination with international suppliers and shipping arrangements.

Relevant authorities outlined steps to facilitate cargo movements and ensure uninterrupted refinery operations and supply infrastructure. The committee emphasized maintaining optimal refinery throughput and coordination among stakeholders to sustain national fuel availability.

In addition to supply measures, officials presented targeted energy conservation and demand management options aimed at reducing pressure on fuel imports during periods of global volatility.

The measures included proposals related to efficient fuel consumption, operational adjustments and public sector conservation initiatives. The committee noted that responsible consumption and targeted conservation could help reduce fuel import costs while supporting economic stability.

The committee also discussed operational issues raised by stakeholders from the aviation and logistics sectors. It directed relevant authorities to conduct a detailed review and present a comprehensive assessment at the next meeting.

Participants reviewed coordination mechanisms with provincial governments to monitor petroleum product availability and prevent supply disruptions.

Provincial representatives briefed the committee on enforcement measures and inspections at petrol pumps. Federal authorities updated participants on the development of an integrated monitoring dashboard designed to enhance real-time visibility of stock levels and retail supply conditions nationwide.

Chairing the meeting, Aurangzeb said the government’s foremost priority is ensuring uninterrupted availability of petroleum products across the country.

He said that despite heightened volatility in global energy markets, Pakistan’s supply position remains stable and well managed due to proactive planning and inter-ministerial coordination.

Aurangzeb added that the committee will continue daily monitoring of international energy markets, domestic stock positions and supply chain dynamics to ensure timely and coordinated policy responses.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining market stability, safeguarding national energy security and keeping supply chains uninterrupted during what he described as an evolving global situation.

The meeting was attended by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, National Food Security and Research Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhary and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, along with federal secretaries and senior officials from relevant ministries, divisions and regulatory bodies.