Pakistan is set to import crude oil from the United States for the first time, marking an important shift in how the country secures its energy supplies. This step is expected to open up new opportunities for Pakistan’s oil industry and help meet the country’s growing energy demands.
Cnergyico, which is Pakistan’s largest oil refinery, has signed an agreement with Vitol, a well-known global oil trading company. Under this deal, Pakistan will receive 1 million barrels of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) light crude oil in October. The shipment will leave from Houston and is likely to arrive at Karachi’s port in the second half of the month.
This milestone deal follows a recent trade agreement between Pakistan and the United States, as well as months of talks that were speeded up by concerns over possible US tariffs.
Usama Qureshi, Vice Chairman of Cnergyico, confirmed that this first delivery is a trial shipment. If it goes well, the company plans to continue importing at least one cargo every month as part of a bigger long-term arrangement with Vitol.
Experts believe this move could help Pakistan diversify its oil imports, improve fuel quality, and run its refineries more smoothly. It could also strengthen trade ties with the US and give Pakistan better options in the global energy market.
This first shipment of American oil is seen as a new chapter for Pakistan’s energy sector, giving the country a chance to build stronger partnerships and secure reliable fuel for its industries and people in the years to come.
