LNG imports to cost over $1b in winter

The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan's winter LNG imports are expected to cost more than $1 billion between November 2026 and February 2027. Of the 22 cargoes planned, 10 will be bought on the spot market at prices twice those charged for Qatari supply. The higher costs follow a sharp disruption to Qatari shipments caused by the Middle East war, which has pushed up open-market prices.

Under the planning figures, 12 cargoes from Qatar under long-term contracts would account for $429.83 million of the total. The 10 spot cargoes are estimated at $863 million, or $86.3 million each, based on a recent tender quoting $26.30 per MMBtu. January 2027 is projected to be the most expensive month at $437.32 million, ahead of December 2026 at $369 million.

Pakistan State Oil (PSO) holds long-term sale-purchase agreements with QatarEnergy that run until 2031. Recently, both PSO and Qatar served contract review notices, and PSO is seeking federal government consent to review its agreement. According to sources, the matter was discussed at a recent energy task force meeting.