Higher crude oil imports offset a sharp decline in LNG purchases as Pakistan’s overall petroleum import bill rises to $16.86 billion
Pakistan’s petroleum import bill increased by 5.76% during the fiscal year 2025-26, driven primarily by a sharp rise in crude oil imports, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The latest PBS figures showed that Pakistan reports petroleum products imports worth $16.86 billion during FY2025-26, compared with $15.94 billion in FY2024-25. The increase reflects higher spending on energy imports despite a significant reduction in liquefied natural gas (LNG) purchases.
Total petroleum imports rise in FY2025-26
According to the official statistics, Pakistan’s total petroleum-related imports reached $16.86 billion in FY2025-26, up from $15.94 billion in the previous fiscal year. The 5.76% year-on-year increase highlights the country’s continued reliance on imported energy to meet domestic demand.
The higher import bill came as international energy prices remained volatile throughout the fiscal year, while domestic demand for fuel continued to support import volumes.
Petroleum products imports increase 7.05%
Imports of refined petroleum products climbed to $6.38 billion during FY2025-26, compared with $5.96 billion a year earlier. This represents a 7.05% increase, indicating stronger demand for refined fuels, including diesel, petrol and other petroleum-based products.
The increase in petroleum products imports reflects sustained consumption across the transport, industrial and power generation sectors.
Crude oil imports surge over 31%
The most significant increase was recorded in petroleum crude imports, which rose by 31.58% year-on-year.
Pakistan imported crude oil worth $7.16 billion during FY2025-26, compared with $5.44 billion in FY2024-25. The sharp rise suggests greater reliance on imported crude for domestic refining, supported by increased refinery operations and changing procurement strategies.
The higher crude imports were the key factor behind the overall increase in Pakistan’s petroleum import bill during the fiscal year.
LNG imports decline sharply
In contrast, imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) recorded a substantial decline during FY2025-26.
According to PBS data, LNG imports fell to $2.22 billion, down from $3.47 billion in FY2024-25. This represents a 36.10% decrease, making LNG the only major petroleum-related category to record a significant annual decline.
The reduction may reflect lower international LNG prices, improved domestic gas availability, reduced consumption or changes in Pakistan’s energy procurement strategy.
LPG imports edge higher
Meanwhile, imports of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) increased modestly during the fiscal year.
Pakistan imported LPG worth $1.08 billion in FY2025-26, compared with $1.05 billion in the previous fiscal year, posting a 3.21% year-on-year increase.
The rise suggests continued demand for LPG from households, commercial users and industries where it remains an important alternative fuel source.
Outlook
The latest PBS data indicate that Pakistan’s energy import profile shifted during FY2025-26, with stronger crude oil imports more than offsetting the sharp fall in LNG purchases. While the overall petroleum import bill rose by 5.76%, future trends will depend on international oil prices, domestic energy demand, exchange rate movements and government policies aimed at improving energy security and reducing import dependence.