Ali Pervaiz Malik Hints at Good News for Households
Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has said the government is preparing good news for domestic gas consumers in the upcoming budget.
Speaking to the media, the minister said relief for household gas users was under consideration. However, he did not share specific details about the expected measures.
His statement comes at a time when many domestic consumers are facing pressure from rising energy costs. Gas bills, petroleum prices and inflation remain major concerns for households across Pakistan.
Ali Pervaiz Malik said the petroleum levy was a difficult issue. He added that the matter was not fully under his control.
The minister said decisions in the Petroleum Division are taken after consultation with the petroleum secretary. He added that the government is trying to manage energy sector challenges through careful planning.
Minister Praises Shahid Khaqan Abbasi’s LNG Role
Ali Pervaiz Malik also praised former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi for his role in Pakistan’s LNG arrangements.
He said Abbasi had performed well during his time in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. The minister described his work on LNG as important for the country’s energy sector.
Malik also said Qatar supported Pakistan during recent tensions in the Middle East. He appreciated Qatar’s cooperation and said energy partnerships remain important for Pakistan.
Pakistan has long depended on imported fuel and LNG to meet domestic and industrial energy needs. Any disruption in global energy markets can directly affect prices and supply in the country.
Strategic Oil Reserves and Deregulation Under Review
The petroleum minister said a study is being conducted on strategic oil reserves. Such reserves can help Pakistan deal with supply shocks and sudden price changes in the international market.
He also called for reforms in the energy sector. Malik said the government should reduce its role in business operations and move toward deregulation.
According to him, deregulation can help improve efficiency and encourage private sector participation.
The minister’s remarks suggest that the government is looking at both short-term relief and long-term reforms. Domestic gas consumers may receive some support in the budget, while broader energy sector restructuring could continue in the coming months.
