Pakistan considers letting private firms import LNG directly

The government is considering allowing power plants and private companies to import liquefied natural gas directly to avoid further financial strain, according to a report by Bloomberg.

Bloomberg reported that two of Pakistan's LNG import terminals have been mostly idle since March after flows from Qatar halted due to conflict in the Middle East. Current regulations make it difficult for buyers other than the state-owned Pakistan LNG Limited to procure cargoes.

The Petroleum Division has reportedly submitted a proposal to auction unused capacity at the terminals and allow private firms to import LNG directly. The country faces challenges securing deliveries due to geopolitical disruptions and high prices.