Islamabad, March 9, 2026 – Pakistan is set to receive three oil shipments today as the government grapples with a potential fuel shortage caused by rising global oil prices and ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the shipments are expected to arrive on Monday, though their exact ports of arrival were not disclosed. Last week, Pakistan raised petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per liter due to the impact of the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the US, which has disrupted key energy supply routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The federal government has sought alternative arrangements, including securing oil supplies through Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea ports. A delegation led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and including Malik met Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah in Karachi to discuss measures for conserving energy and addressing a potential fuel crisis.
Authorities have warned petrol pumps against hoarding and profiteering. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has allowed companies to manage fuel distribution to retail pumps, and a joint dashboard with provincial governments will monitor reserves and supply.
Aurangzeb noted that Pakistan’s monthly oil import bill could rise by about $600 million if prices continue to increase, prompting the government to prepare alternative financial plans.
In response to the crisis, the government is expected to announce an austerity plan today. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the importance of wise use of national resources while ensuring that industry, agriculture, and food security are not affected.
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