The US-Iran war has increased the need to reduce dependence on foreign supplies, Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said during a meeting with refinery sector officials.

He added that refinery upgrading will increase productivity and efficiency in the sector.

The minister said that after the upgradation it will be possible to produce clean fuel of Euro-5 standard. He stated that pollution reduction and environmental improvement will be achieved with Euro-5 fuel, while refinery upgrades will also ensure better engine performance and lower emissions.

The Petroleum Minister held a detailed meeting with refinery heads on the brownfield refinery upgrade policy and sector reforms.

According to an official statement, it was decided to accelerate efforts for effective implementation of the refinery upgrade policy. The minister assured full government support to the refinery sector.

Ali Pervaiz Malik expressed concern over delays in the policy’s execution, saying that barriers affecting modernization and long-term investment must be removed.

The issue of sales tax exemption on petroleum products for refinery upgrade projects was highlighted as a major challenge.

The meeting reviewed refinery policies and upgrade agreement templates in detail, while refinery representatives presented practical suggestions.

The minister directed that comprehensive proposals be submitted before the upcoming federal budget to resolve pending issues and support smooth implementation of the upgrade plan.