Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) is set to import its first-ever cargo of Nigerian crude oil in September. This marks a new step for PRL as it looks to diversify its oil supply sources.
According to a Reuters report, PRL will receive 500,000 barrels of Bonny Light crude from Vitol. The cargo will be loaded later in August and is expected to arrive in Karachi by late September.
Bonny Light is a type of light-sweet crude. It is known for producing high yields of gasoline and diesel. This makes it a valuable option for refiners like PRL, especially at a time when Middle Eastern oil prices are rising.
PRL’s decision to import Nigerian crude aligns with a broader trend in Asia. Many regional refiners are now turning to alternatives like U.S. West Texas Intermediate and Kazakh CPC Blend. These alternatives offer better pricing and quality, helping reduce production costs.
Pakistan has not imported Nigerian crude since 2014. At that time, the country purchased a cargo of Yoho crude, according to data from Kpler, an energy analytics firm. This new move signals a possible return to sourcing from West Africa.
For PRL, this deal is important. It allows the refinery to test a new crude blend and potentially unlock more supply options in the future. If the processing of Bonny Light proves efficient, PRL could make more such purchases in the coming months.
This shift may also support the government’s goal of improving energy security and reducing reliance on traditional sources.
With global oil markets constantly shifting, PRL’s move to try Nigerian crude oil shows its intent to remain flexible and cost-effective in its operations. This import could open doors to more diverse trade partnerships and stable fuel supplies for Pakistan.
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