August 07, 2025 – Karachi

Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) is set to import its first-ever cargo of Nigerian Bonny Light crude oil from global energy trader Vitol, sources confirmed.

The 500,000-barrel light-sweet crude shipment will be loaded later this month and is expected to arrive in Karachi by late September. Pricing details remain undisclosed.

This move follows a broader trend among Asian refiners, including Pakistan, seeking alternatives to increasingly expensive Middle Eastern supplies.

It also comes shortly after Cnergyico’s deal to import U.S. crude (WTI) from Vitol, scheduled for October delivery.

While Pakistan historically relies on Saudi and UAE crude, this marks the country’s first known Bonny Light purchase.

Bonny Light is valued for its high gasoline and diesel yield, making it attractive for local refiners.

Oil is Pakistan’s largest import item, with FY25 crude and petroleum imports reaching $11.3 billion, nearly 20% of total imports.

The deal reflects PRL’s strategic shift toward diversifying energy sources amid evolving global crude markets.