PM Shehbaz Sharif orders digital system to end oil, gas profiteering

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the implementation of a modern digital monitoring system in Pakistan’s oil and gas sector, aiming to eliminate profiteering, hoarding and improve transparency across the energy supply chain.

The directive came during a meeting in Islamabad where the prime minister met a delegation led by the World Bank’s country director. The delegation presented a set of policy recommendations focused on strengthening governance, improving regulatory oversight and enhancing efficiency in the country’s energy sector.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz instructed the relevant authorities to establish a committee to review the World Bank’s recommendations and submit practical proposals for implementation. The committee is expected to evaluate the report and identify reforms that could modernize the sector while protecting consumers.

The prime minister also issued specific instructions to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to introduce an advanced digital system capable of monitoring the movement, storage and distribution of petroleum products. The initiative is intended to increase transparency, curb illegal practices and prevent artificial shortages caused by hoarding.

Officials said the digital platform is expected to strengthen regulatory oversight by enabling authorities to monitor supply chains in real time, making it more difficult for unscrupulous elements to manipulate fuel availability or earn unlawful profits through price distortions.

The government believes greater digital integration will improve accountability, ensure a more reliable supply of petroleum products and build public confidence in the country’s energy market. Officials also hope the move will support broader economic reforms by promoting fair competition and reducing opportunities for market abuse.

The meeting reflects the government’s continued focus on improving governance in key economic sectors through technology-driven reforms. Energy experts say stronger digital oversight could help streamline operations, enhance regulatory compliance and provide consumers with greater protection against unfair pricing and supply disruptions.

The government is expected to announce further details regarding the implementation timeline after the review committee completes its assessment of the World Bank’s recommendations.