Pakistan releases tender for three LNG cargoes purchase

Pakistan LNG Limited has issued its first spot tender for liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports since December 2023, as supply constraints emerge in the global energy market reportedly linked to tensions affecting shipping routes in the region.

The company is inviting international suppliers to bid for three LNG cargoes, each of approximately 140,000 cubic metres. Deliveries are scheduled for April 27–30, May 1–7, and May 8–14 at Port Qasim in Karachi, according to the tender notice issued on Thursday.

Pakistan has reportedly not received any LNG cargoes loaded after late February, amid disruptions affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit route for global energy trade.

Qatar has historically remained Pakistan’s largest LNG supplier, accounting for the majority of the 6.64 million metric tons imported last year, according to data from energy analytics firm Kpler.

In addition, Azerbaijan’s state energy firm SOCAR has indicated readiness to supply LNG to Pakistan upon request, under a 2025 framework agreement that allows accelerated procurement through SOCAR Trading.

Market conditions have tightened following reported disruptions in regional shipping routes, pushing Asian LNG spot prices to multi-year highs before easing slightly in recent sessions.

Prices were last recorded at around $16.05 per million British thermal units, reflecting a significant increase since late February.

Analysts note that reduced supply expectations and elevated prices are likely to impact demand across Asia, as buyers adjust to ongoing volatility in the global LNG market.