Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.
After last week’s focus on rising import pressure and landed cost planning, Pakistan’s supply chain story is now moving towards long-term energy security.
This week, the main developments are:
- Fuel prices have come down sharply.
- Foreign exchange reserves have improved.
- Port infrastructure is receiving more attention.
- Energy security remains a major concern.
Pakistan still depends heavily on energy supplies moving through the Strait of Hormuz. Regional tensions have shown how quickly fuel prices, shipping costs, insurance rates, and freight planning can change.
The Current Situation: Pakistan Plans Strategic Oil Reserves
Pakistan is planning to increase its storage capacity for crude oil and refined petroleum products.
According to a Reuters report on Pakistan’s energy-security plans, up to 90% of Pakistan’s oil and LNG imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
The proposed plan includes:
- Building emergency petroleum reserves
- Allowing international suppliers to store fuel in bonded terminals
- Increasing storage through refineries and oil marketing companies
- Improving energy infrastructure around Hub and Port Qasim
- Strengthening pipeline connectivity
- Reducing reliance on smaller and more expensive shipments
The government aims to finalise the bonded-storage framework in June 2026.
The Reality:
Pakistan’s supply chain cannot depend only on cargo arriving safely each week.
The country also needs:
- Stronger storage capacity
- Emergency reserves
- Better port infrastructure
- Improved energy planning
Key Updates:
1. Petrol and Diesel Prices Fall by Rs 22 Per Litre
According to Pakistan State Oil’s latest fuel-price data, petrol is now priced at Rs 381.78 per litre, while high-speed diesel is priced at Rs 380.78 per litre.
The new prices became effective on May 30, 2026.
The Breakdown:
- Petrol: Rs 381.78 per litre
- Diesel: Rs 380.78 per litre
- Price reduction: Rs 22 per litre
The Reality:
Lower diesel prices may reduce pressure on:
- Trucking costs
- Container movement
- Port-to-warehouse transport
- Last-mile delivery
But businesses should still check freight rates before confirming shipments. Transporters may not reduce prices immediately.
2. Foreign Exchange Reserves Improve
Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves increased to $22.65 billion as of May 22, 2026, according to the State Bank of Pakistan’s reserve data.
The Breakdown:
- SBP reserves: $17.15 billion
- Commercial bank reserves: $5.50 billion
- Total reserves: $22.65 billion
The Reality:
Stronger reserves can support:
- Import payments
- Fuel purchases
- LNG procurement
- Shipping payments
- Exchange rate stability
3. Port Qasim Starts Local Dredging Operations
Port Qasim Authority has signed an agreement for local dredging operations.
The goal is to:
- Improve navigational depth
- Reduce dependence on foreign contractors
- Save foreign exchange
- Improve long-term cargo movement
The Reality:
Better dredging can help larger vessels enter the port safely.
Port capacity is not only about terminals and cranes. Safe access for vessels also matters.
4. Cargo Ship Incident Near Karachi Port
Two cargo vessels came into contact near Karachi Port on May 28, 2026.
According to Business Recorder’s report on the Karachi Port incident, no injuries were reported, and the damaged vessel was safely moved into Karachi Harbour.
The Reality:
The incident shows why port safety and shipment visibility remain important.
Supply chains can be affected by:
- Vessel incidents
- Port congestion
- Documentation delays
- Inland transport issues
- Regional disruptions
5. FY27 Budget Expected on June 5
Pakistan’s federal budget for FY2026–27 is expected to be presented on June 5, 2026.
According to Business Recorder’s budget update, businesses should watch for possible changes in:
- Customs duties
- Taxes
- Fuel levies
- Import policies
- Regulatory costs
The Reality:
Importers and exporters should review their landed cost assumptions after the budget is announced.
Even a small change in taxes, duties, or fuel levies can affect the final cost of a shipment.
What This Means for Importers and Exporters
This week brings some relief, but businesses still need to plan carefully.
Focus on:
- Tracking freight rates after the fuel-price cut
- Preparing for budget-linked cost changes
- Checking customs documents before cargo arrives
- Monitoring inland freight costs
- Calculating landed cost before confirming shipments
Your landed cost should include:
- Freight charges
- Fuel surcharges
- Insurance
- Duties and taxes
- Exchange rate impact
- Port charges
- Customs clearance
- Inland transportation
Secure Your Logistics in a Changing Market
Maalbardaar helps importers and exporters manage:
- Freight
- Customs clearance
- Transportation
- Documentation
- Shipment tracking
We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with access to freight rates, helping businesses improve visibility and make stronger decisions before delays and extra costs affect their shipments.
Take control of your supply chain with Maalbardaar.
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