KARACHI: Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) expects a notable boost in gas output following the deferment of Qatar RLNG cargoes, which had previously caused system back pressure and curtailed local production, company officials revealed during an analyst briefing on Tuesday.
According to PPL’s management, the deferment could enhance production by more than 50 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd). The company’s output had fallen 11% in FY25, mainly due to reduced gas offtake from the Kandhkot field and curtailments at Sui, Nashpa, and TAL fields. Negotiations for reallocation of gas from Kandhkot are underway and expected to conclude within months.
Field-wise output in FY25 comprised 42% from Sui, 17% from Kandhkot, 15% from Gambat South, 2% from Adhi, and 24% from partner-operated fields. For FY26, production is projected between 600–650 mmcfd, depending on curtailment conditions.
PPL also plans a major seismic campaign covering 700 line kilometres of 2D and 600 square kilometres of 3D data, along with new development wells at Gambat South and Shah Bandar. The company expects the Dhok Sultan field to add 1,000–1,400 barrels of oil per day in the medium term.
Diversification beyond oil and gas remains a key priority. Through Pakistan Minerals Limited (Reko Diq) and the Barite Lead Zinc (BLZ) Project, PPL aims for a substantial portion of revenue to come from mining within five years. Production from the BLZ project is expected by FY29, while Reko Diq has completed its feasibility study and is nearing financial close.
PPL operates 21 producing fields and 46 exploratory blocks, including 25 company-operated areas. In FY25, the company drilled 11 exploratory and four development wells, with plans for 15 wells in FY26. Its 2P reserve replacement ratio stood at 129%, supported by eight new discoveries—six in partner-operated zones. A recent PCA with ADNOC will enable drilling of three Abu Dhabi discoveries starting in early 2027.
Pakistan’s total gas production in FY25 averaged 2.9 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd), with PPL contributing 19% of the national output. Overall, domestic production declined by 6.5% due to RLNG-induced curtailments on the SNGPL network.
