KARACHI: The industrial sector in Pakistan is facing a significant threat due to the suspension of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) supply from Qatar, a development that could impede industrial operations nationwide. Mian Zahid Hussain, President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum (PBIF), has raised concerns over the halt in LNG supply until November 5, which he attributes to a 'Force Majeure' situation arising from the US America war. This suspension is expected to impact the country's manufacturing output drastically as gas demand peaks during winter.

According to Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, Hussain highlighted that with Qatar accounting for 20 percent of the global LNG supply, the disruption will lead to a significant shortfall for Pakistan, which typically imports around 0.22 Trillion Cubic Feet of LNG annually from various countries. The ongoing Iran-US war exacerbated the situation between March and September 2026, as Pakistan received only 17 LNG shipments, resulting in a daily deficit of 400 million cubic feet.

Hussain noted that sectors such as power generation, manufacturing, textiles, and exports are particularly vulnerable to any disruption in gas supply. The looming cuts in LNG provision are expected to force factories to reduce production, which could lead to delays in fulfilling export orders and harm the country's export sector if international commitments are not met.

In response to the shortage, Hussain urged the Ministry of Energy and the Petroleum Division to continue procuring LNG from the spot market, despite the increased costs. This approach, he argued, is necessary to prevent industrial shutdowns and preserve the manufacturing sector's productivity. He also emphasized the need for a prioritized gas allocation mechanism to ensure that available resources are directed towards industrial processes and exports.

Hussain commended the government's macroeconomic stabilization efforts, which have improved foreign exchange reserves and enhanced Pakistan's global economic standing. However, he stressed that maintaining uninterrupted industrial operations is crucial for long-term success and urged the government to act swiftly in securing alternative LNG supplies to mitigate the crisis.