ISLAMABAD: Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices have surged across parts of Pakistan as the closure of two major border crossings with Iran disrupts imports and creates shortages in domestic markets.
The Gabd-Rimdan and Taftan crossings were closed on October 17, interrupting an important supply route for LPG entering Pakistan from Iran.
According to traders cited by Reuters on October 23, the price of a 12-kilogram LPG cylinder has increased from approximately Rs4,500 to Rs7,000 in parts of Balochistan.
Prices have reportedly reached Rs7,500 in Lahore and Rs8,200 in Skardu, although rates vary by location and supplier.
The Pakistan LPG Association estimates that around 7,000 metric tonnes of LPG are imported daily from Iran under normal trading conditions.
More than 4,000 tonnes previously entered through the Gabd-Rimdan crossing alone, making the disruption particularly significant for the country’s fuel supply.
Pakistani authorities have linked the border restrictions to security concerns and efforts to prevent smuggling, while Iranian officials have cited technical issues.
Although the Gabd-Rimdan crossing has partially reopened for Pakistani exports of perishable goods, LPG imports remain suspended, according to the latest reporting.
The disruption has also affected commercial transport, leaving hundreds of trucks and tankers stranded near the border.
LPG is widely used for cooking and heating, particularly in areas where piped natural gas is unavailable or unreliable.
Traders have warned that prolonged restrictions may lead to further shortages unless imports resume or alternative supplies become available.
Officials from Pakistan and Iran have been discussing the restoration of cross-border trade, but no confirmed date for the full resumption of LPG imports has been announced.