Balochistan, Federal government form joint framework to monetize Low BTU Gas for industrial growth

QUETTA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th Jun, 2026) Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti has emphasized that the provincial government is taking practical steps to strengthen economic self-reliance through effective monetization of resources.

An important meeting chaired jointly by CM Balochistan and Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik reviewed the utilization and monetization of Low BTU gas reserves in the province and their potential for industrial and economic development.

During the meeting, consensus was reached between the Government of Balochistan and the Ministry of Petroleum to make Low BTU gas commercially viable.

A joint working group comprising representatives from both sides has been formed to prepare a regulatory and institutional framework with comprehensive recommendations by the end of July 2026.

It was agreed that Low BTU gas available in Sui and other areas will be utilized for low-cost power generation, fertilizer production, and other commercial activities, thereby boosting industrial growth and economic activity in the province.

The Ministry of Petroleum assured full cooperation, including facilitation in OGRA field development and transport licensing.

Federal Minister Ali Pervez Malik offered Balochistan equity participation through a third-party company and reiterated that the federal government’s priority is to ensure that the benefits of natural resources reach the local population. He also directed immediate activation of the Kulchas Drilling and Zinc Head projects to accelerate industrial and economic gains.

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The meeting further resolved that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds will be spent on welfare, social development, and public interest projects to ensure that resource benefits directly reach communities.

CM Sarfraz Bugti stated that making Low BTU gas usable will usher in a new era of industrial prosperity, job creation, and investment opportunities in Balochistan.

He stressed that the fruits of natural resources must first reach the local population, adding that both federal and provincial governments share this responsibility.

He reaffirmed that effective monetization of resources will strengthen Balochistan’s economic independence and improve the living standards of local communities.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that strong federal-provincial cooperation will accelerate industrial, economic, and social development in Balochistan.

He assured full support for collective development projects in the broader interest of Pakistan and the people of Balochistan.

The meeting was attended via video link by Federal Minister Ali Pervez Malik and his team, while CM Sarfraz Bugti was accompanied by Parliamentary Secretary for Energy Mir Asghar Rind, Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, Vice Chairman Balochistan board of Investment and Trade Bilawal Khan Kakar, Secretary Energy Asfandyar Kakar, Principal Secretary Imran Zarkoon, and other senior officials.