Qatari LNG cargo clears Strait of Hormuz, set to reach Pakistan in two days

Pakistan is expected to receive additional LNG supplies after a Qatari cargo successfully passed through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz amid heightened regional tensions.

 

The LNG carrier Al Marrouna, carrying approximately 81,936 metric tons of LNG from Qatar’s Ras Laffan terminal, crossed the Strait of Hormuz on September 7 under Pakistan’s government-to-government LNG arrangement with Qatar.

 

A senior Petroleum Division official said the vessel is expected to arrive at Port Qasim within two days, where it will berth at the Engro LNG terminal.

 

The shipment is expected to provide some short-term support to Pakistan’s power sector, which is currently experiencing six to 12 hours of load-shedding in parts of the country.

 

The cargo was secured at a price equivalent to 13.37% of Brent, according to officials.

 

The successful transit of the vessel is also being closely monitored by global LNG markets, as it has eased some concerns over a prolonged interruption to Qatari LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

 

The development has placed downward pressure on Asian benchmark Platts JKM and Northwest European LNG prices, reflecting reduced fears of an extended disruption to regional LNG supplies.

 

Meanwhile, Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) has cancelled a spot LNG tender issued on September 5, which was scheduled to open on September 8.

 

The latest Qatari shipment is considered particularly important because it is reportedly the first Qatari LNG cargo to leave the Persian Gulf since tensions around the Strait of Hormuz intensified in July.

 

The worsening security environment had raised concerns over potential shipping disruptions and increased insurance costs for vessels operating through the strategic waterway.

 

For Pakistan, the successful passage of the LNG carrier provides temporary relief, but risks to future supplies remain. Any renewed disruption around the Strait of Hormuz could increase LNG procurement costs, put pressure on energy security and affect fuel availability for power generation.

 

Qatar, meanwhile, has continued diplomatic engagement with Iran while strengthening regional ties as it seeks to limit its exposure to risks associated with the Hormuz chokepoint. The country remains a major global LNG supplier and an active regional mediator.