Pakistan’s Senjico Refining Company, amid disruption in the Strait of Hormuz route, increases crude oil imports from the United States.

Reuters reported that the company is reviewing spot purchases and long-term oil supply contracts, and may use financing facilities offered by the Export Development Bank and U.S. imports to fund trade.

Asama Qarishi, vice president of Senjico, said the company has announced a $1.2 billion program to expand the refinery, which also includes the construction of a second single-point mooring facility.

After the Strait of Hormuz was closed and the Houthis announced a ban on oil exports from Saudi Arabia via the Bab al-Mandab, Pakistan sought alternative sources outside the Persian Gulf. Accordingly, Pakistan’s oil minister, in an emergency meeting, instructed refinery managers to immediately identify alternative sources.