Gas prices may surge as LNG imports halt after strait disruption

Gas prices may surge as LNG imports halt after strait disruption
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Summary Hormuz Strait closure delays 22 LNG cargoes, disrupting Pakistan gas supply and raising fears of shortage, price hike and revenue pressure in energy sector

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - The impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure is beginning to reach Pakistan, as 22 LNG cargoes expected have been delayed, raising fears of a worsening gas crisis due to disrupted supply.

According to sources, the halt in imported LNG has affected the country’s gas system, increasing concerns over supply shortages and a possible rise in gas prices.

They said that due to the suspension of LNG imports, revenue shortfalls in the gas sector may increase, which could force authorities to revise gas tariffs upward to meet financial targets.

Sources added that the annual revenue target of gas companies stands at over Rs 852 billion, including Rs 515 billion for Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited and Rs 347 billion for Sui Southern Gas Company.

It was further stated that more than 40% of revenue comes from fertilizer and power sectors, while captive power plants and CNG supply chains also contribute significantly.

Officials warned that if cross-subsidy mechanisms are removed, domestic consumers could face a sharp increase in gas prices.

Sources also confirmed that gas diversion towards the power sector has already begun, resulting in early signs of load management and domestic gas load shedding.

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