Don’t panic, Petroleum stocks stocks secure : FM

ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday reassured the public that Pakistan’s petroleum stock position and supply outlook remain stable, emphasizing that there is no basis for panic buying or unnecessary hoarding of fuel.
He made these remarks while presiding over a meeting of the Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices, which continues its daily review of developments in the energy sector amid evolving regional conditions. The session was attended by Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, and senior officials from relevant ministries, divisions, and regulatory authorities.
The committee conducted a comprehensive review of petroleum product stocks nationwide, including the current inventory of crude oil and refined products, ongoing import arrangements, and supply chain logistics. Officials briefed members that fuel availability for March is fully secured, with coverage extending to mid-April. Efforts are underway to further extend supplies through the end of April, ensuring that the country maintains comfortable inventories of crude oil and key petroleum products.
The meeting also assessed procurement patterns and maritime logistics in light of regional developments. The committee highlighted the importance of diversifying supply sources to enhance the resilience of the national energy supply chain. Officials confirmed that procurement strategies are being revised to broaden international sourcing and reduce reliance on any single corridor, thereby strengthening Pakistan’s overall energy security.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, the Finance Minister instructed regulators, provincial governments, and agencies to closely monitor stock levels and market activity to prevent any attempts at creating artificial shortages or disrupting supply. He stressed that violations would be dealt with strictly under the law.
The committee will continue to meet daily to review petroleum stocks, import flows, market conditions, and supply chain developments, ensuring uninterrupted availability of fuel and maintaining public confidence through timely and accurate information. Ends