As tensions escalate in the Middle East following US–Israel strikes on Iran and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation, the Government of Pakistan has activated round-the-clock monitoring of the country’s fuel supply chain to prevent any disruption.
According to a press release from the Finance Ministry, an 18-member high-level committee has been formed under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. The committee will monitor petroleum prices, stock levels, supply flows, and demand daily. Fresh reports will be submitted directly to the Prime Minister every evening.
The group includes senior officials such as the Governor of the State Bank, along with the Ministers for Energy and Petroleum.
Officials have stressed that there is currently no short-term supply issue and that Pakistan’s energy supply chain is functioning normally. However, authorities say proactive oversight is necessary to maintain market confidence amid global uncertainty.
Why Pakistan Is Concerned
The move comes after rising geopolitical instability in the region, particularly concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz — a critical maritime corridor through which nearly 98% of Pakistan’s fuel imports pass.
Iran’s retaliation and reported barricading of the Strait have disrupted global oil supply routes. Additionally, tensions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait have added another layer of uncertainty. Any prolonged disruption along these key sea routes could significantly impact fuel-import-dependent countries like Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Current Fuel Reserves
Reports suggest that Pakistan’s existing petroleum reserves are sufficient for approximately 28 days of standard national consumption.
While authorities maintain there is no immediate shortage, the limited reserve window highlights the country’s vulnerability in the event of sustained shipping disruptions.
OGRA Directs Refineries to Increase Stocks
Separately, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has issued directives to all refineries and oil marketing companies to ensure sufficient supplies of crude oil, petrol, diesel, and LPG.
The instruction is aimed at preventing any short-term disruption and stabilizing domestic availability amid evolving regional developments.
A Structural Vulnerability
Beyond the immediate crisis, the situation underscores a deeper structural issue. Pakistan’s domestic crude oil is not refinery-ready for local processing, so it is exported to countries such as Brunei and Thailand. As a result, Pakistan remains heavily dependent on imported refined petroleum products.
This reliance on imports makes the country particularly exposed to global shipping disruptions and regional instability.
What Happens Next?
For now, the government maintains that supply chains remain stable. However, continued escalation in the Middle East — especially around key maritime chokepoints — will determine whether precautionary measures evolve into emergency responses.
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