Shell clarification

Shell Pakistan admitted in a statement issued on Friday that the sudden surge in the demand of petroleum products has placed considerable burden on its fuel supplies in the last two days, due to which many sites had dry-outs. Average supply for motor gasoline across the country increased by 60% from 1.2 million liters to 2 million liters on June 30. It said that the demand for motor gasoline in the country had increased by 33% since March as against 12% in the first quarter of this year. In order to meet the additional surge in demand, Shell sought special permission, in April, to import 30,000 tons of MS in May and currently is importing two additional tankers of 30,000 tons each in the month of July for the industry. A press release said that with a 100-year history in the subcontinent, Shell is a superior brand in the market and the preferred supplier of fuels for the customers in Pakistan. Shell is fully committed to ensuring regular and smooth supplies across the country and is committed to remain at the forefront of oil marketing in Pakistan. (July 4, 2009)