Pakistan’s local oil refineries produced more than 500,000 tonnes of high-speed diesel (HSD) in July, allowing the country to meet domestic demand without importing HSD during the month. The development comes as international import premiums remained high and supply disruptions in the Middle East created additional challenges for global fuel markets.
Demand for diesel also increased significantly. HSD sales rose 19% year-on-year and 25% month-on-month during July, showing stronger consumption despite the challenging international environment. Local production therefore played an important role in ensuring adequate diesel supplies in the domestic market.
Pakistan continued to import petrol during the month, with 345,361 tonnes brought into the country. Interestingly, all imported petrol was 92 RON, while no 95 or 97 RON petrol was imported during the period.
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The country’s furnace oil exports, meanwhile, remained relatively limited. Shipments included different grades of furnace oil, including high-, medium- and low-sulphur varieties, reflecting relatively subdued demand and trading activity in this segment.
Although HSD imports fell to zero in July, the situation may not remain unchanged. An HSD cargo arranged by Pakistan State Oil (PSO) is expected to arrive in the coming days, indicating that the country continues to monitor fuel demand and supply conditions closely.
The latest figures highlight the growing importance of domestic refining capacity in meeting Pakistan’s energy needs. Higher local diesel production can reduce reliance on expensive international purchases, particularly when global fuel markets face supply disruptions and elevated premiums.
For consumers and the wider economy, stronger local fuel availability could help improve supply stability. However, future fuel import requirements will depend on domestic refinery output, seasonal demand, international prices and developments in global energy markets.
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