Balochistan: Pakistan has achieved a major milestone in its energy diversification drive by receiving its first-ever shipment of crude oil from the United States, officials said, as the country works to secure new energy sources and boost trade relations with Washington.
Notably, the shipment, carried by the Suezmax vessel MT Pegasus, arrived this week at Cnergyico’s offshore terminal in the coastal province of Balochistan, marking a new phase in Pakistan’s energy imports. Earlier this month, reports revealed that Cnergyico Pk Limited had finalized a plan to import 1 million barrels of U.S. crude from global energy trader Vitol.
Landmark Step Toward Energy Diversification
In a statement, Usama Qureshi, Vice Chairman of Cnergyico Pk Limited, described the delivery as a landmark development for Pakistan’s energy sector.
“This inaugural shipment is a critical step in expanding Pakistan’s crude supply sources and strengthening our trade relationship with the United States,” Qureshi said.
He added that two additional consignments are expected to arrive one in mid-November 2025 and another in January 2026. Together, these three shipments could improve Pakistan’s trade balance with the United States by around $200 million, he noted.
Cnergyico’s Offshore Terminal Enhances Efficiency
Transitioning to operational aspects, Qureshi explained that Cnergyico’s Single Point Mooring (SPM) terminal the only offshore crude-handling facility in Pakistan allows for the direct docking of large-capacity vessels.
The system, he said, reduces logistics costs, shortens delivery times and enhances refinery operations by eliminating the need for costly transfers in congested ports. “The SPM terminal enables us to handle Suezmax-class vessels efficiently, making Pakistan’s oil supply chain more resilient and cost-effective,” he added.
Strengthening Trade and Energy Security
Beyond immediate economic gains, the move also signals a strengthening of U.S.-Pakistan trade ties and a strategic effort to ensure long-term energy security.
“These imports not only diversify Pakistan’s crude supply but also reinforce bilateral economic cooperation,” Qureshi said.
Furthermore, industry observers believe that regular imports of U.S. crude will stabilize refinery operations, support industrial output and help Pakistan hedge against supply disruptions linked to regional and geopolitical tensions.
A Strategic Shift in Pakistan’s Energy Landscape
Over the past year, Pakistan has intensified efforts to diversify its energy imports, traditionally dominated by the Middle East. Consequently, with global supply chains evolving and energy markets shifting, partnerships with new suppliers like the U.S. are becoming increasingly vital.
Analysts say the move aligns with the government’s broader goals to modernize energy infrastructure, attract foreign investment and reduce vulnerabilities to climate and market shocks.
