Islamabad: A high-level meeting chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb in Islamabad today emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to advance reforms in the gas sector through a phased and consultative approach. The meeting underscored the importance of creating a framework that balances financial sustainability, operational efficiency, consumer welfare, and private-sector participation.

According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting reviewed a proposed restructuring and deregulation roadmap for Pakistan’s gas sector. The reforms are intended to create a financially sustainable, efficient, and competitive gas market that supports businesses, encourages private investment, and safeguards consumer welfare. The discussions focused on a phased transition towards greater competition, effective regulation, and a sustainable approach to gas pricing and supply.

Key outcomes anticipated from the reform framework include enhanced energy security, increased private-sector investment, and reduced fiscal risks. The approach aims to foster business-to-business transactions, stabilize gas pricing, and improve access to competitively priced gas for exporters. Additionally, the initiative seeks to lower system losses through improved efficiency benchmarks and performance-based incentives.

The meeting reiterated the government’s commitment to a phased and consultative reform process, ensuring that financial sustainability and operational efficiency are enhanced while attracting investment and developing a competitive gas market that protects consumer interests.