Pakistan’s fertilizer sector has been affected by a shortage of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG), forcing three major urea manufacturing plants to suspend operations. The shutdown follows the federal government’s decision to curtail RLNG supplies in response to the prevailing regional situation, raising concerns about fertilizer production and supply in the coming weeks.

The affected facilities include the urea plants of Fatima Fertilizer, FFC Port Qasim, and Agritech Limited. The suspension of gas supplies has brought urea production to a temporary halt at all three plants, according to industry experts.

Muhammad Waqas Ghani, Senior Vice President and Head of Equity & Research at JS Global, told ProPakistani that the reduction in RLNG availability has directly impacted fertilizer manufacturers, leaving the plants unable to continue production.

Industry sources indicate that the shutdown is expected to remain in place until around mid-August, although the exact duration remains uncertain. The timeline will largely depend on future government directives and the restoration of adequate RLNG supplies to industrial consumers.

Despite the current disruption, there is still a possibility that production could resume earlier if gas availability improves. Officials suggest operations may restart even within the current week should RLNG supplies stabilize and restrictions be lifted.

Natural gas serves as a key raw material in the production of urea fertilizer, making uninterrupted energy supplies essential for the sector. Any prolonged interruption can reduce domestic fertilizer output and place additional pressure on agricultural supply chains, particularly during critical farming seasons.

Pakistan’s agriculture sector relies heavily on locally produced urea to support crop cultivation. A sustained production slowdown could increase supply challenges, potentially affecting fertilizer availability for farmers if the shutdown extends beyond current expectations.

The government has prioritized energy management amid evolving regional circumstances, resulting in temporary adjustments to RLNG allocation across various sectors. While these measures are intended to address broader energy requirements, industries dependent on continuous gas supplies have experienced operational disruptions.

Market analysts will continue monitoring developments related to RLNG availability, as the timing of supply restoration will determine when the fertilizer plants can resume normal production. The situation also remains important for the agriculture sector, which depends on a stable fertilizer supply to maintain crop productivity.

Authorities and industry stakeholders are expected to closely assess gas availability in the coming weeks to minimize the impact on fertilizer production and ensure sufficient supplies ahead of future agricultural demand.