Islamabad: A meeting on the proposal to blend ethanol with locally produced petrol by refineries was held in Islamabad today with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar in the chair. The session focused on evaluating the feasibility of incorporating ethanol into the fuel supply chain, potentially impacting both the energy sector and the economy.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Chairman of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) presented a detailed overview of the proposal. After extensive discussions, the committee recommended adopting a policy of voluntary blending. This recommendation comes in light of the current market situation where ethanol prices exceed those of petrol, thereby necessitating financial viability for both refineries and ethanol manufacturers. The committee advised OGRA to conduct a quarterly assessment comparing the financial implications of ethanol exports with its potential blending into locally produced petrol. The findings are to be submitted through the Petroleum Division for further review by the Prime Minister’s Office.

In addition to the ethanol-petrol blending proposal, Ishaq Dar also led the inaugural meeting of the Committee on Economic Management Reforms. This meeting focused on strategizing the implementation of the government’s comprehensive economic plans across several sectors, including energy, social development, and governance. The discussions highlighted the significant roles of the Planning Commission and other relevant ministries in driving these plans. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need to concentrate on sectors with the potential to catalyze higher, more inclusive economic growth.