The government of Pakistan has increased Pakistan LNG prices by up to 28 percent for the month of May, according to an official notification issued on Thursday. The revised rates will apply to consumers connected to both the Sui Northern and Sui Southern gas distribution systems during the current billing cycle.
Officials said the increase reflects changes in international energy markets and higher supply costs associated with imported liquefied natural gas.
LNG Prices Revised for Sui Northern and Sui Southern
Under the latest revision, LNG prices for the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited system have increased by $3.43 per million British thermal units (MMBtu). The new rate for Sui Northern consumers has been fixed at $16.98 per MMBtu.
Meanwhile, consumers connected to the Sui Southern Gas Company network will face an increase of $3.51 per MMBtu. The revised LNG rate for Sui Southern has been set at $16.04 per MMBtu.
The notification confirmed that the updated rates would remain effective throughout the current billing period.
International Market Trends Behind Increase
Officials stated that the rise in Pakistan LNG prices is linked to fluctuations in international energy markets and variations in supply costs for imported LNG.
Pakistan heavily relies on imported LNG to meet domestic gas demand, especially during periods of high industrial and household consumption. Global fuel prices and shipping costs continue to impact local energy tariffs.
Energy analysts say higher LNG import costs could increase pressure on industries and commercial consumers already dealing with rising utility expenses.
Pakistan Receives Two LNG Cargoes from Qatar
Earlier this month, Pakistan received two LNG cargoes from Qatar within a single week as part of ongoing energy cooperation between the two countries.
According to reports, LNG carrier MV Al Kharaitiyat arrived at Port Qasim carrying more than 95,000 tons of Qatari liquefied natural gas.
Another LNG tanker, Mihzem, also anchored at Port Qasim with 56,573 metric tons of LNG cargo from Qatar.
Sources familiar with the matter said the shipments are part of a government to government agreement under which Qatar supplies LNG to Pakistan.
Officials added that two additional LNG tankers carrying Qatari gas are expected to arrive in Pakistan in the coming days.
Pakistan Discusses LNG Transit Route with Iran
Pakistan has also been holding discussions with Iran regarding safe passage for LNG tankers through the Strait of Hormuz amid regional tensions and supply concerns.
According to sources quoted in international reports, Islamabad requested Tehran’s assistance to facilitate the movement of LNG vessels because of Pakistan’s urgent gas requirements.
Sources said Iran agreed to cooperate and both countries are coordinating safe transit arrangements for LNG shipments linked to Pakistan’s agreement with Qatar.
Qatar Remains Key LNG Supplier
Qatar remains Pakistan’s primary LNG supplier and is also one of the world’s largest exporters of liquefied natural gas. Most Qatari LNG exports are shipped to Asian markets, including Pakistan, China, Japan, and South Korea.
Pakistan’s long term LNG agreements with Qatar continue to play a critical role in maintaining energy supplies for domestic consumers and industries.