Karachi PRL Sets 15‑Day Refinery Shutdown

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Karachi – Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) has announced a scheduled 15-day shutdown, starting August 17, 2025, to carry out a regeneration shutdown for routine maintenance. The company officially informed the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) about the temporary suspension of its operations.

According to the company’s notification, the shutdown is essential for ensuring the refinery’s operational efficiency and safety, including the inspection and maintenance of key production units. PRL emphasized that such regeneration shutdowns are part of its proactive maintenance strategy, designed to prevent unscheduled disruptions and maintain fuel supply reliability.

Industry analysts note that while the closure is temporary, it may create short term constraints in the availability of refined petroleum products.PRL, a subsidiary of Pakistan State Oil Company Limited (PSO), plays a crucial role in supplying domestic fuel demand, particularly in the southern region of Pakistan

PRL, incorporated in May 1960, operates a hydro skimming refinery capable of processing approximately 50,000 barrels per day. Its primary production units include crude desalting, distillation, hydro-desulfurization, platforming, isomerization, LPG recovery, and effluent-water treatment, all of which require regular maintenance to operate efficiently.

The refinery is concurrently advancing its Refinery Expansion and Upgradation Project (REUP), which aims to double production capacity to 100,000 barrels per day and introduce Euro V compliant fuels for both high speed diesel (HSD) and motor spirit (MS). This upgrade aligns with Pakistan’s broader efforts to modernize its refining infrastructure and comply with international fuel standards.

PRL assured stakeholders that the shutdown has been carefully planned to minimize operational disruption. Downstream distributors and government regulators will monitor fuel supply levels closely during this period. The company expects operations to resume smoothly following the maintenance, ensuring that the refinery continues to meet domestic energy needs reliably.