Attock: Attock Refinery Limited (ATRL) has outlined plans for a new 50,000 barrels per day (BPD) deep-conversion refinery alongside significant upgrades to its existing facility, as detailed in its latest annual report. The developments are contingent on enhanced supplies of local crude and government support, and aim to bolster ATRL's competitiveness and product output.

According to JS Global, ATRL's strategic Refinery Upgradation Project is being propelled by an amended refining policy, with an estimated investment of approximately $600 million. The project will introduce advanced technologies such as a Continuous Catalyst Regeneration Reformer and a Kerosene Hydrotreater. These installations are expected to enhance gasoline production by 25%, align product specifications with Euro-V standards, and reduce the reliance on certain additives.

The project's preparation phase is nearing completion, with 90% of the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) finalized. Studi Technologie Progetti SpA, an Italian firm, has been contracted for project management consultancy services. ATRL is also in discussions with potential international contractors for engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning tasks.

Additionally, ATRL has made financial adjustments in response to policy changes, including a Rs3.1 billion payable related to revisions in High-Speed Diesel deemed-duty rates. Inventory adjustments and price differential penalties have impacted profitability, with a Rs6.5 billion write-down and a combined Rs2.3 billion in charges recorded.

Despite challenges, ATRL successfully exported 172,500 tons of Low Sulphur Furnace Oil to mitigate weak domestic demand. The refinery's capacity utilization improved to 71% in FY26, aided by new local crude supplies expected to sustain higher operational levels in the future.