Pakistan seeks alternative LNG supplies, braces for winter shortages amid Qatar force majeure

Pakistan is seeking alternative liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies and preparing to limit deliveries to certain sectors following Qatar's force majeure notice on LNG shipments until November 5, 2025. The situation arose due to attacks on QatarEnergy facilities during the US-Iran conflict, causing a halt in production. Last winter, Pakistan imported 36 LNG cargoes, all from Qatar, with the Ministry of Petroleum preparing a plan to explore alternatives from the US, Middle East, and Azerbaijan.

The government aims to secure spot cargo at around $29 per million British thermal units (MMBtu), making additional purchases more expensive. Diplomatic efforts with Qatar, Iran, and the US are underway to facilitate Qatari LNG through the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan's government is also planning to manage gas demand during winter months by implementing load management and curtailment measures, prioritizing domestic consumers and RLNG (re-gasified LNG) for power generation and industry.

The government is considering allowing private companies to utilize unused import capacity at LNG terminals to bring additional supplies.