LNG Imports: Pakistan has secured its most expensive spot liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo after Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) approved PetroChina International’s bid of $20.6999 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) for delivery on July 21-22, amid supply disruptions and rising regional tensions.

PLL received two bids after inviting offers for one spot LNG cargo. PetroChina International submitted the lowest evaluated bid at $20.6999/mmBtu, while BP Singapore offered $21.3737/mmBtu. The PLL board approved PetroChina’s bid for the scheduled delivery window.

The state-owned company issued the tender to secure additional LNG supplies as soaring temperatures and electricity shortages increased domestic energy demand. The latest purchase will be Pakistan’s fourth spot LNG cargo for July.

The sharp increase in LNG prices follows disruptions to Qatari gas supplies linked to regional conflict, forcing Pakistan to rely more heavily on the spot market. The higher prices reflect tighter global supply and stronger demand for available cargoes.

PLL has floated four spot tenders in less than three weeks. Earlier purchases included a cargo from BP Singapore at $16.7372/mmBtu for the June 30-July 4 delivery window, a cargo from TotalEnergies Gas & Power Limited at $17.3700/mmBtu for July 10-11, and another from BP Singapore at $18.2345/mmBtu for July 15-16.

Pakistan is also expected to receive reduced LNG volumes from Qatar under its long-term supply agreement after QatarEnergy extended force majeure for some European and Asian buyers until August or September.

Since the regional conflict began, Pakistan has received 10 LNG cargoes, including five under long-term contracts with QatarEnergy and five purchased from the spot market. The newly approved shipment will become the country’s 11th LNG cargo overall and sixth spot market purchase during the period.

Pakistan LNG Limited, a state-owned company, is responsible for procuring LNG to meet the country’s growing natural gas and electricity requirements.