Shell Pakistan imports fuel to cope with demand

Shell Pakistan Ltd. said that the sudden surge in the demand for petroleum products in the country placed considerable burden on its fuel supplies in July, due to which many sites dried out. Average supply for motor gasoline across the country increased by 60% from 1.2 million liters to 2 million liters on June 30. Meanwhile, demand for motor gasoline in the country increased by 33% since March against 12% in the first quarter of 2009. In order to meet the additional surge in demand, Shell sought special permission from the government in April to import fuel in May and was also able to import two additional tankers of 30,000 tons each in July. Shell said in a statement that it 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)