A gas price hike may hit consumers across Pakistan in the next fiscal year, as energy companies push for higher tariffs amid rising costs and system losses.
Officials say the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority will review new tariff requests from Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited and Sui Southern Gas Company for FY 2026–27. Public hearings are scheduled in Lahore and Karachi in mid-May.
According to initial proposals, SNGPL has requested an increase in its prescribed tariff from Rs1,853 to over Rs2,000 per mmBtu. SSGC is seeking an even higher adjustment, though exact figures remain under review.
The expected gas price hike is linked to multiple factors. These include rising import costs of liquefied natural gas (LNG), system inefficiencies, and growing financial pressure in the energy sector.
Pakistan has also committed to reforms under the International Monetary Fund programme. This includes timely tariff adjustments to reduce circular debt, which has crossed Rs3 trillion.
Experts say reducing unaccounted-for-gas (UFG) losses is another key part of the plan. Regulators are considering gradually lowering the allowed loss percentage over the next five years. However, actual losses remain higher than current benchmarks.
Industry analysts warn that higher tariffs could increase financial pressure on households and businesses. Gas is widely used for cooking, heating, and industrial production in Pakistan, making any price change highly impactful.
At the same time, officials argue that tariff adjustments are necessary to keep the energy system stable. Without reforms, losses may continue to grow and affect supply reliability.
For consumers, the coming months will be crucial. Final decisions are expected before the new fiscal year begins in July. Any approved gas price hike will directly affect monthly utility bills nationwide.
