ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s private gas sector has made its debut at the Gastech international energy forum in Bangkok, with Universal Gas Distribution Company (UGDC) becoming the first Pakistani company to participate in the global exhibition and conference in its 54-year history.
UGDC has established a stall at Gastech 2026, being held at Bitec, Bangkok, Thailand, from September 14 to 17, providing the company an opportunity to present Pakistan’s emerging private gas sector to international energy companies and potential investors.
The Gastech 2026 exhibition and conference is bringing together thousands of delegates and attendees from around the world, with participation from 49 countries and around 1,000 exhibiting companies, according to the official strategic preview of the event.
UGDC Chief Executive Officer Ghiyas Abdullah Paracha said the participation represented an important opportunity for Pakistan’s private sector to engage directly with international gas companies and investors.
He appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik for opening the gas sector to private entities, saying the policy had enabled Pakistani private companies to approach international firms for investment in the country’s gas distribution infrastructure.
“We appreciate the prime minister Shehbaz Sharif and petroleum minister Ali Pervaiz Malik for opening up the gas sector for private entities,” Paracha said while talking to the media at Gastech in Bangkok.
He said UGDC was using the international platform to highlight investment opportunities in Pakistan’s gas sector and seek partnerships with international companies.
Pakistan currently has two major state-owned gas distribution companies, SNGPL and SSGC, which operate the country’s principal gas distribution networks.
Paracha said the entry of private companies into gas distribution could help develop additional infrastructure and provide consumers with alternative sources of gas supply.
He said UGDC wanted more private-sector companies to invest in Pakistan’s gas sector, describing greater private participation as important for developing a competitive and sustainable gas market.
Pakistan’s Ambassador in Bangkok, Sadia Qazi, also visited the UGDC stall and appreciated the company’s participation in Gastech.
She described the participation as a significant moment for Pakistani business representation at a major international energy platform.
Qazi also highlighted the importance of integrating modern technology, artificial intelligence optimisation and low-carbon solutions into the gas sector to strengthen Pakistan’s long-term energy security.
