PARCO, Cnergyico lead $1bn refinery exports
Pakistan’s oil refining sector has achieved a major milestone. The country’s five major refineries exported petroleum products worth around $1.046 billion during the fiscal year 2025-26.
This is the first time that the refinery sector has crossed the $1 billion export mark. The development has also strengthened the sector’s role as a source of foreign exchange for Pakistan.
The achievement comes as the country continues to face pressure from a large trade deficit. Pakistan’s trade deficit is estimated at around $40 billion, increasing the importance of exports and import savings.
The five major refineries made a significant contribution to the overall export earnings.
Pakistan Arab Refinery Company (PARCO) recorded exports of around $277 million. Cnergyico Pakistan Limited exported petroleum products worth approximately $258 million.
National Refinery Limited (NRL) recorded exports of around $238 million. Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) exported products worth approximately $200 million.
Meanwhile, Attock Refinery Limited (ARL) exported petroleum products worth nearly $73 million.
PARCO and Cnergyico remained the biggest contributors. Their combined exports reached approximately $535 million. This accounts for more than half of the total exports recorded by the five refineries.
The development is particularly significant because the refining sector has traditionally been viewed mainly as a means of reducing Pakistan’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
The latest figures show that the industry is increasingly contributing to both sides of the equation. It is helping reduce the import burden while also generating foreign exchange through exports.
Cnergyico has also entered the global marine fuel market. The move could provide the company with new export opportunities and help expand Pakistan’s presence in the international fuel market.
Industry modernization is expected to further improve the sector’s performance. Upgraded refinery facilities can increase production efficiency and enable companies to produce products that meet international market requirements.
Further investment in refinery upgrades could therefore lead to higher exports in the coming years. It could also increase savings on petroleum imports.
The latest performance highlights the growing importance of Pakistan’s refining industry. With continued modernization, better efficiency and access to international markets, the sector could become an increasingly important source of foreign exchange for the country.
The development also comes at a critical time for Pakistan’s economy. Higher exports and lower import dependence are essential for reducing pressure on the country’s external account.