Pakistan’s oil industry has warned the government about a possible Petrol Shortage in different parts of the country. Industry officials say low fuel stocks, delayed customs clearance, and financial problems could affect fuel supplies if quick action is not taken.
The Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) raised these concerns in a letter marked “Most Urgent” to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik. The council said immediate government support is needed to avoid supply disruptions in the coming days.
According to the OCAC, Pakistan currently has around 370,000 metric tons of petrol. This amount is equal to about 15 days of national fuel demand. However, the council explained that the actual available stock is lower because recently imported petrol is still waiting for customs clearance.
The delay is linked to the WEBOC customs clearance system. Imported fuel cargoes cannot enter the market until the clearance process is completed. This has reduced the amount of petrol available for distribution across the country.
The council said three petrol cargoes are expected to arrive between July 15 and July 17. It stressed that these shipments must be cleared without delay. Quick clearance will help prevent a Petrol Shortage, especially in upcountry areas where fuel supplies are more sensitive.
The OCAC also noted that fuel stocks became tighter after a planned Pakistan State Oil import cargo was not approved by the National Coordination and Management Council in June. This decision added more pressure to the country’s existing fuel reserves.
At the same time, rising international oil prices have increased concerns in the local market. Dealers and consumers are reportedly buying more petrol because they expect prices to rise further. This higher demand is putting additional pressure on already limited fuel stocks.
The oil industry is also facing serious financial challenges. According to the OCAC, oil marketing companies are waiting for the payment of Rs. 66.7 billion in outstanding Price Differential Claims. The council said these unpaid claims have reduced the companies’ ability to finance new fuel imports.
It further warned that increasing global oil prices will require even more working capital for future imports. Without financial support, companies may struggle to maintain a steady fuel supply.
The OCAC has requested the government to release the pending payments immediately. It also asked authorities to remove customs clearance delays and ensure the smooth import and transportation of petroleum products.
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The council warned that if these issues are not resolved quickly, Pakistan could experience a localized Petrol Shortage in the coming days. It believes timely government action is necessary to keep fuel supplies stable and avoid disruptions in different regions of the country.
