Pakistan Proposes Private LNG Imports Amid Qatar Supply Disruptions

The Ministry of Energy of Pakistan has proposed a policy shift to allow private companies and power plants to import liquefied natural gas directly. The proposal aims to expand the auction of unused capacity at the country's two LNG import terminals to stabilize energy supplies without increasing the financial burden on the state.

This move follows severe supply disruptions from Qatar, Pakistan's primary LNG supplier, which declared force majeure and cancelled a July 2026 shipment. These disruptions were driven by conflict in the Middle East and the near closure of the Strait of Hormuz. While the state-owned Pakistan LNG Limited has attempted to secure replacement supplies via the spot market, prices have more than doubled compared to prewar levels.

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik warned that fuel prices could reach Rs. 1,000 per liter if these shortages persist. The proposal to decentralize import authority follows advocacy from the Pakistan GasPort Consortium Limited, which supports allowing non-state-owned companies to procure LNG to ensure energy security.