BANGKOK: Pakistan has rejoined the prestigious Gastech 2026 Global Energy Forum after a gap of 54 years. The event is taking place at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from September 14 to 17. According to the organizers, UGDC (United Gas Development Company) is the first Pakistani company in over five decades to set up a stall at this prominent exhibition.
Official figures from Gastech indicate that the conference has attracted approximately 7,000 delegates, 1,000 exhibitors, and representatives from 150 countries. During the event, an estimated 50,000 participants are expected to attend.
UGDC CEO Ghias Abdullah Puraiche expressed that the government’s policy to allocate 35% of gas to the private sector marks a significant step towards deregulation in the gas industry. The company aims to reduce gas prices in Pakistan through foreign investment, direct business partnerships, and private gas distribution networks.
Puraiche highlighted that currently, gas distribution is managed by state-owned companies SNGPL and SSGC, but UGDC seeks to establish private networks in collaboration with American and other international companies. This approach, he explained, will reduce gas losses, offer cheaper gas to consumers, and generate increased revenue for the government through taxes and transit fees. Additionally, he noted that private sector investment would help lower energy costs.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Thailand, Sadiya Qazi, visited UGDC’s stall and described Pakistan’s participation in Gastech as a significant milestone for the Pakistani business community on the global stage.
