Pakistan Receives First Qatar LNG Shipment via Hormuz Since July
The 82,000-tonne cargo is expected to support LNG supplies and provide temporary relief to the power sector
Qatar LNG cargo ship arrives at Pakistan’s Port Qasim amid regional energy supply concerns.
KARACHI, September 11, 2026: Pakistan has received its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipment from Qatar through the Strait of Hormuz since July, as concerns grow over energy supplies amid regional tensions.
The cargo ship Al Marrouna arrived at the Engro LNG Terminal at Port Qasim on Thursday morning. The vessel carried around 82,000 tonnes of LNG from Qatar’s Ras Laffan terminal.
Asad Altaf, a spokesman for Port Qasim, said the vessel crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday before reaching Pakistan.
First Qatari LNG Cargo Since July
The shipment marks the first Qatar-origin LNG cargo to reach Pakistan through the strategic waterway since July 11.
Altaf said scheduled QatarEnergy shipments had faced disruption because of the regional situation.
The latest cargo was procured under a government-to-government arrangement between Pakistan and Qatar. It is expected to increase LNG availability and offer temporary support to the power sector.
The arrival has also eased concerns about a prolonged interruption of Qatari LNG supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.
Hormuz Disruption Raises Energy Concerns
The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial route for global energy shipments. Any prolonged disruption could affect Pakistan’s supplies of both LNG and crude oil.
Pakistan relies heavily on imported fuel to meet its energy needs. Therefore, disruptions in international supply routes can quickly increase costs for consumers and businesses.
Islamabad and Doha have also been involved in diplomatic efforts aimed at bringing the United States and Iran back to negotiations.
Power Outages Add to Pressure
Pakistan is currently facing power outages lasting between six and 12 hours in several areas, according to the report.
At the same time, fuel prices have risen sharply following renewed hostilities around the Strait of Hormuz.
The government has introduced a daily fuel pricing mechanism to respond to volatility in international crude markets. The move has also triggered protests by political parties.
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Higher Fuel Costs Hit Businesses
Stakeholders remain concerned that a wider Gulf conflict could severely disrupt crude oil and LNG supplies.
Pakistan has recently imported small quantities of crude oil from the United States. However, the longer shipping distance has increased the cost of those supplies.
Higher fuel prices have also raised production and transportation costs.
Goods transporters have announced a 10 per cent increase in freight charges amid rising inflation. Further disruption to energy supplies could place additional pressure on businesses and consumers.
