Pakistan Increases Sea Imports as LPG Prices Surge
Pakistan is importing more LPG via sea routes to combat soaring retail prices caused by land-based supply disruptions from Iran.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices in Pakistan have surged to between Rs. 500 and Rs. 650 per kilogram, far exceeding the official Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority rate of approximately Rs. 280. In some regions, 11kg cylinders have reached costs above Rs. 10,000, leading to a retailer strike in Lahore that has kept shops closed for two days.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik informed the National Assembly that the government is exploring alternative sea routes because 70 percent of LPG is typically imported via land. To counter supply disruptions, Pakistan increased seaborne imports, with over 11,600 tonnes arriving at Karachi ports within one week, including shipments from Bahrain and two cargo ships from Oman. These imports follow the suspension of LPG bowser movements at the Gabd-Rimdan border crossing.
While commercial cargo has recently resumed at the border, Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam countered reports of potential closures, stating that the border remains open and exports continue without restrictions. Minister Malik acknowledged the current lack of a clear LPG pricing policy and stated the government intends to announce one soon, noting that prices remain linked to Saudi Aramco rates.
