The Petroleum Division has finalised a roadmap for deregulating Pakistan’s gas sector with technical assistance from the World Bank, aiming to create a more competitive, transparent and financially sustainable energy market.

The roadmap was prepared during a meeting on gas sector reforms chaired by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and attended by the World Bank’s country director.

According to an official statement, the reform plan includes the reorganisation and unbundling of the Sui gas companies by separating their transmission, distribution and energy businesses.

The government also plans to gradually move towards market-based gas pricing while introducing a stronger regulatory framework to oversee the transition.

Under the proposed reforms, the gas subsidy system will be restructured to ensure that only deserving consumers receive targeted financial support.

The roadmap will be presented to the prime minister for approval later this month. Following approval, the reforms will be implemented in phases.

Speaking at the meeting, Ali Pervaiz Malik said the reforms would strengthen Pakistan’s energy security, improve pricing transparency and enhance the financial sustainability of the Sui companies.

He said the government was committed to establishing a competitive, transparent and efficient gas market while creating new opportunities for private sector investment and participation.

The minister added that the role of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) would be further strengthened to ensure effective oversight of the competitive gas market.