Sources in the trade and industry sectors have revealed that Qatar Energy purchased 33 immediate liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments from the United States this year. These shipments are destined for the company's clients in South Korea, Taiwan, Bangladesh, India,
and Japan, with the aim of mitigating the disruptions faced by its main customers. This comes after the suspension of Qatari gas exports through the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict with Iran. Qatar Energy had previously declared a force
majeure on its LNG shipments following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz to navigation. This closure impacted approximately 20% of global oil and gas supplies passing through the region from major producers. The 33 shipments represent about a third of
Qatar Energy's monthly exports prior to the conflict and are valued at approximately one billion dollars. Sources indicated that about 80% of Qatari LNG shipments are typically directed to Asian markets, noting that these purchases serve as a gesture of
goodwill from Qatar Energy to ensure the continuity of supply for its essential customers. The sources affirmed that the company aims to show appreciation for its clients and its commitment to uninterrupted supplies. The sources clarified that Qatar Energy acquired these
shipments directly from the US company Venture Global LNG, in addition to receiving cargoes from some of Venture Global's clients. The American company declined to comment. Twenty-eight of these shipments have already been delivered, while the remaining five are en
route to South Korea, Taiwan, and India. It is worth noting that the United States has emerged as the world's largest LNG exporter in recent years, with companies like Venture Global benefiting from the increasing demand for alternative supplies, especially amidst
the regional conflict and the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine war.
