ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has received its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo for October, but an expected rise in winter demand and limited availability have raised concerns about gas supplies to industrial sectors.

According to authorities, the vessel Al Areesh, carrying LNG from Qatar, docked at Engro’s LNG terminal yesterday at 11:05 am. Regasification began at 12:00 noon.

The report states that 24 LNG cargoes will be needed to meet the country’s gas requirements during winter 2026–27. Maintaining uninterrupted supplies is therefore expected to be a major challenge for the energy sector.

Gas demand expected to rise during winter

Demand for Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) is expected to increase from the current 550 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) to 1,550 mmcfd during winter.

Similarly, demand for Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) may rise from the current 300 mmcfd to 500 mmcfd.

Industrial sectors face supply concerns

The anticipated increase in demand, combined with limited gas availability, has raised concerns that industrial sectors could face supply difficulties during the winter months.

According to the report, a shortage could affect export and non-export industries, compressed natural gas (CNG) and cement sectors, putting additional pressure on industrial operations and production.