Pakistan received its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo of October on Tuesday, as the country faces supply disruptions and uncertainty over winter energy availability. The vessel Al-Areesh docked at Engro’s LNG terminal at 11:05 am, and regasification began at noon, adding 150 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of regasified LNG to the national gas network.
Authorities are seeking additional LNG shipments from Qatar amid disruptions to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan had been attempting to secure three cargoes with assistance from Iranian and US officials, but the country is expected to receive only two shipments in October, matching September’s arrivals.
Engro’s terminal had remained shut since September 26 due to a lack of LNG vessels, while the second terminal, operated by Pakistan GasPort Limited (PGPL), stopped operations on October 9 because of insufficient inventory. Another cargo for PGPL is expected within eight to 10 days.
Between October 9 and 13, neither terminal regasified LNG, leaving the power sector with only around 38 mmcfd for electricity generation as of October 13. The supply outlook remains uncertain after QatarEnergy declared force majeure on March 4 following an attack on its Ras Laffan facility. The suspension has been extended until November 6 and could continue if conditions in the Strait of Hormuz do not improve.
Winter demand is expected to increase sharply, with Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited’s requirements projected to rise from 500 mmcfd to 1,550 mmcfd. Sui Southern Gas Company’s demand is expected to increase from 300 mmcfd to 500 mmcfd.
Domestic production issues are adding to the pressure. Supplies from several gas fields and processing facilities have declined or been suspended because of maintenance, operational problems, pipeline damage and payment disputes. These disruptions could further complicate efforts to meet Pakistan’s gas and electricity needs during the winter season.