Pakistan has started importing crude oil via the Red Sea route as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts traditional supply lines for one of the country’s most critical imports. Sources say a Pakistan National Shipping Corporation vessel has already reached the Saudi port of Yanbu in the Red Sea to load oil after tanker traffic through the Gulf was affected by escalating conflict following the closure of the strait a crucial chokepoint that handles nearly a fifth of world oil shipments.
The move comes after Islamabad formally requested alternative supply arrangements with Saudi Arabia highlighting its vulnerability to disruptions in Gulf energy routes. Petroleum officials say Riyadh has assured Pakistan of continued support with crude now being routed through Red Sea ports to bypass the closed Hormuz corridor.
Pakistan’s energy sector has been under pressure from the wider Strait of Hormuz crisis which has triggered higher fuel prices supply concerns and emergency planning in Islamabad as authorities work to secure sufficient stocks. Officials are also coordinating shipments from UAE ports like Fujairah and other Gulf suppliers to ensure fuel arrives without causing shortages at home.
The alternative routes are more complex and costly than the traditional Gulf passage and industry experts warn that they may still strain Pakistan’s energy supply chain if the Strait of Hormuz closure continues. For now however the use of the Red Sea corridor provides a vital lifeline for crude imports amid unprecedented disruptions in global oil movements.
