Saudi Aramco Posts 25% Profit Rise Amid Supply Disruptions
Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil exporter, announced a 25% increase in its first-quarter net profit, reaching $32.5 billion for the three months ending March 31, 2026. This rise comes amidst disruptions in oil shipping routes caused by the conflict between Iran and the United States, Reuters reported.
The company’s total revenue also grew nearly 7% year-on-year to $115.49 billion. This increase was driven by higher crude oil prices alongside increased sales volumes across crude oil, refined products, and chemicals.
The geopolitical tensions have significantly impacted the critical Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global energy shipments. In response, Aramco has been rerouting more of its crude oil exports through its East-West Pipeline. The pipeline is now operating at full capacity, transporting about 7 million barrels per day.
Aramco’s CEO, Amin Nasser, emphasized the strategic importance of the pipeline during this crisis, stating that it has proven to be a crucial supply artery mitigating the impact of the global energy shock. Approximately 2 million barrels per day are supplied to refineries on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, while around 5 million barrels per day are exported via the Red Sea.
For oil-import dependent countries like Pakistan, the ongoing disruption in global shipping lanes presents significant challenges. Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imported fuel means that any disturbance in oil supply chains translates directly into elevated import costs and increased fuel prices for consumers. Since the onset of the Iran-US conflict, petrol prices in Pakistan have surged from around Rs. 268 per liter to over Rs. 400 per liter.
The key concern for Pakistan remains the duration and severity of these global shipping disruptions. While Saudi Aramco benefits from increased prices and maintains supply through alternative routes, importers face higher costs that are likely to be passed on to end users.
If supply routes continue to experience instability, fuel prices in Pakistan may remain elevated, leading to increased financial burdens on consumers and pressures on the country’s import bill.
Industry watchers and policymakers will be closely monitoring developments in the region to assess the ongoing impact on energy markets and domestic fuel pricing.