Pakistan Stops Private Diesel Imports Due to Global Oil Market Uncertainty
The federal government of Pakistan has stopped private oil marketing companies from importing high-speed diesel and has allowed only Pakistan State Oil (PSO) to continue diesel procurement.
According to officials, the decision was made during a recent meeting of the National Coordination and Management Council due to ongoing instability in the Middle East.
Authorities said the temporary restriction will remain in place until regional tensions and global oil market conditions improve.
Under the new policy, private oil marketing companies must now obtain special approval from the council before importing high-speed diesel into Pakistan.
Officials described the move as part of broader efforts to control Pakistan’s rising oil import bill and manage foreign exchange reserves more effectively.
The government believes centralizing diesel imports through PSO will help improve coordination between fuel demand, import volumes, and available foreign currency resources.
The decision comes during a period of increased uncertainty in global energy markets linked to Middle East tensions and disruptions in international oil supply routes.
Industry experts say diesel imports are one of Pakistan’s largest external payment pressures due to the country’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
However, private oil marketing companies have expressed concerns regarding the new restrictions and possible supply chain complications.
Executives from private firms warned that limiting imports to PSO alone could create logistical bottlenecks if fuel demand increases unexpectedly.
Officials clarified that the policy still allows private companies to request special approval in emergency situations or during severe fuel shortages.
The latest development has generated strong public attention as Pakistan continues facing economic pressure from rising fuel costs and volatile international oil prices.
