ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has decided to cancel 21 liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes that were scheduled to arrive under an import deal with an Italian energy company, citing lower domestic gas demand.
According to sources in the Petroleum Division, the contract between Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) and the Italian firm allowed for one LNG cargo per month. However, Pakistan has now opted to drastically reduce its LNG imports for 2026 and 2027.
In 2026, Pakistan will import only two LNG cargoes — one in January and another in December — instead of the previously planned twelve. Similarly, in 2027, only one cargo will be purchased in January.
The sources added that the decision came after Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) reassessed domestic demand and found that gas requirements could be met without the additional imports.
Officials said the move aims to cut unnecessary costs and align energy imports with actual consumption, as Pakistan continues to face foreign exchange pressure and seeks to balance its energy portfolio.
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