ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has received its second liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo from Qatar in October, with supplies entering the national gas system as authorities seek to avoid expensive purchases from the international spot market.
According to sources in the Ministry of Energy, two LNG shipments from Qatar have arrived in Pakistan so far this month under existing supply arrangements.
Officials are increasingly relying on contracted LNG supplies to meet domestic gas requirements and minimise the financial burden of purchasing additional cargoes at significantly higher international market prices.
Sources said LNG imported under Pakistan’s agreement with Qatar costs approximately $14 to $15 per million British thermal units (MMBtu), compared with spot market prices reaching as high as $30 per MMBtu.
The price difference means contracted LNG is currently available at roughly half the reported spot market rate, offering potential savings on the country’s gas import bill.
Energy officials are seeking to avoid additional purchases from the global spot market wherever possible, particularly as higher import costs could place further pressure on national finances.
The latest shipment has already begun supplying gas to the domestic system, helping authorities meet demand through existing contractual arrangements.
The government’s approach focuses on managing LNG procurement costs while maintaining supplies and reducing exposure to fluctuations in international energy prices.