Pakistan importing oil via Red Sea route after Strait of Hormuz closure disrupts shipments

Pakistan importing oil via Red Sea route has begun after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted global energy shipments. The move aims to ensure continuous oil supplies to the country amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

Shipping sources said a vessel of the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) has reached Yanbu port in Saudi Arabia. The ship will leave for Karachi on Thursday carrying about 73,000 tonnes of crude oil.

Officials confirmed that Pakistan importing oil via Red Sea route is part of an urgent plan to avoid delays caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

PNSC vessels carrying crude oil

Another PNSC vessel named Shalamar has also loaded oil from Fujairah port. The ship is currently travelling towards Karachi with its cargo.

However, the regional crisis has also affected several ships. According to shipping sources, two PNSC vessels remain stranded due to disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict.

Strait of Hormuz disruption affects global supply

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. A large portion of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass through this narrow waterway.

Shipping activity in the area has slowed significantly since the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated more than a week ago.

The disruption has temporarily blocked nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moving through the route.

Fuel prices rise in Pakistan

The international oil price surge has already impacted Pakistan’s fuel market. The federal government recently increased petrol and diesel prices due to higher global costs.

Petrol price was raised by Rs55 per litre to Rs321.17. Diesel price also increased to Rs335.86 per litre after the latest review.

Oil shipments continue arriving

Despite the crisis, oil shipments are still reaching Pakistan. Officials said four petrol-carrying ships arrived at Port Qasim on Tuesday.

Around 37,000 tonnes of petrol have already been unloaded. Another shipment of nearly 50,000 tonnes is currently being transferred.

Authorities say Pakistan importing oil via Red Sea route will help reduce supply risks and maintain fuel availability across the country.