Karachi – Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) is set to import its first-ever shipment of Nigerian Bonny Light crude oil from global commodity trader Vitol, in a move aimed at diversifying the country’s crude supply sources and reducing dependence on Middle Eastern imports.
According to industry officials, the shipment of 500,000 barrels is expected to be loaded later this month, with arrival at Karachi Port anticipated by late September. Bonny Light crude is prized for its low sulphur content and high yield of light fuels such as petrol and diesel, making it suitable for domestic refining needs.
The decision comes as Asian refiners increasingly explore alternative crude sources, including U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Kazakh CPC Blend, amid rising prices for Middle Eastern grades. Analysts say this strategic shift could help Pakistan improve cost efficiency and strengthen energy security.
Petroleum products account for nearly 20 per cent of Pakistan’s total import bill, amounting to $11.3 billion in the current fiscal year. Earlier this year, Cnergyico became the first Pakistani refiner to secure a U.S. crude shipment, also through Vitol, scheduled for delivery in October.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.