Petroleum Minister Predicts Increase in LNG Prices, Warns of Rising Consumer Burden

Islamabad:Federal Minister for Petroleum, Musadik Malik, has announced that the price of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) will continue to rise, with significant impacts on consumers. Speaking on a news program, *Naya Pakistan*, on Geo News, he explained that the government is currently providing LNG to domestic consumers, while the remaining gas is allocated to industries. However, he emphasized that as the price of LNG increases, the burden on consumers would inevitably grow.

Malik clarified that LNG is being purchased at high prices but sold at lower rates, leading to price hikes within six months. He also noted that pipeline gas prices are increasing, further contributing to the rising cost of natural gas in the country. According to Malik, while the government subsidizes 66 to 70 percent of gas costs for consumers, the situation is becoming increasingly unsustainable.

As LNG prices rise, Malik warned that demand would decrease as consumers find it harder to afford gas, which could lead to a larger energy crisis. He emphasized that despite the financial challenges, the government remains committed to ensuring that domestic consumers continue to receive gas. However, the increasing cost of LNG will place additional pressure on both the public and the energy sector.

This statement highlights the ongoing challenges in Pakistan’s energy sector, where the rising cost of LNG is expected to have a broader economic impact, especially for households.