Pakistan has taken delivery of its first-ever shipment of crude oil from the United States, a move officials say marks a new chapter in the country’s efforts to diversify energy sources and strengthen trade relations with Washington.

The inaugural cargo, carrying one million barrels of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude, arrived this week at Cnergyico Pk Limited’s offshore terminal in Balochistan aboard the vessel MT Pegasus. Two additional shipments from the US are expected in mid-November 2025 and January 2026.

Cnergyico’s Vice Chairman, Usama Qureshi, described the milestone as a major step forward for Pakistan’s refining sector. “By importing US crude through our Single Point Mooring facility, we can handle larger vessels, cut transport costs, and enhance refining efficiency,” he said.

According to company officials, the three scheduled shipments together could improve Pakistan’s trade balance with the United States by around $200 million. The WTI grade, known for its competitive pricing compared to other benchmarks, was first ordered in August 2025.

Industry insiders note that although freight charges from the US are higher than those from the Middle East, the larger shipment size helps offset additional costs. Cnergyico’s terminal can accommodate bigger vessels than other Pakistani ports such as Port Qasim and Kiamari, giving it an operational edge.

Officials say the move aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to ensure long-term energy security through supply diversification while deepening bilateral trade links with the US.