Pakistan Secures Another Qatari LNG Cargo Amid Hormuz Disruptions

Pakistan has secured the passage of another liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo from Qatar through the Strait of Hormuz, providing additional support to the country’s energy supplies amid ongoing regional disruptions.

 

The LNG tanker, which loaded its cargo at Qatar’s Ras Laffan facility in late June, crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend and is expected to reach Pakistan’s LNG import terminal by Tuesday, according to shipping data.

 

The shipment is the second Qatari LNG cargo to reach Pakistan this month. An earlier cargo carried by the vessel Al Marrouna was delivered to Port Qasim.

 

Pakistan has faced difficulties in securing LNG supplies amid disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, while elevated spot-market prices have increased the cost of alternative cargoes.

 

The country relies heavily on long-term LNG supply agreements with Qatar to meet part of its energy requirements at relatively predictable prices. Disruptions in the region previously led to the cancellation of a Qatari LNG shipment scheduled for July, with Qatar subsequently declaring force majeure.

 

The supply disruption has increased pressure on Pakistan to arrange alternative LNG cargoes and manage its fuel requirements amid higher international energy prices.

 

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said on Sunday that fuel prices could rise significantly if a shortage emerges, while maintaining that there is currently no fuel shortage in the country.

 

He said international oil prices had risen by around 80%, whereas domestic petrol prices had increased by approximately 50% since March 1.