Pakistan’s refining sector has recorded a significant 13% year-on-year increase in throughput in March 2026, reaching 972,000 tons, ensuring stable fuel supply across the country despite global market disruptions.
According to industry data, the rise in refinery output was primarily driven by increased production of motor spirit (petrol) and high-speed diesel. Petrol production grew by 25.1%, while diesel output surged by 26.8% compared to the same period last year.
Major contributions came from key refineries such as Cnergyico and Parco, which played a crucial role in maintaining consistent fuel supply and reducing reliance on imported petroleum products.
The increased production also extended to jet fuel, supporting aviation and defence requirements. This reflects the ability of the local refining industry to respond effectively to rising domestic demand during uncertain global conditions.
However, furnace oil sales saw a decline of 21.1%, indicating a shift in Pakistan’s energy consumption patterns. Despite this, strong demand for petrol and diesel supported overall refinery performance.
Government measures, including improved crude oil supply management and pricing strategies, helped refineries operate at higher capacity and prevented supply shortages or panic buying.
Industry experts suggest that future policies should prioritize domestic refining to strengthen energy security, reduce import dependence, and conserve foreign exchange reserves.
There is also growing support for deregulation and daily pricing mechanisms, which could improve efficiency, enhance market transparency, and stabilize fuel supply chains in the long term.
