Qatar maintains grip on LNG volumes
QatarEnergy keeps control
First expansion supply deals illustrate commitment to maintaining its grip of LNG volumes along the value chain
Concern over duration of demand is one explanation as to why portfolio players and Asian utilities have been keener than those with European end-user commitments when it comes to the surge in interest in LNG SPAs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The theory goes that Europe’s utilities see too much risk in committing to deals lasting ten or more years, given the uncertainty over Europe’s post-2030 gas requirements. In this scenario, global portfolio players—which have signed up to 26.7mn t/yr of supply since late February—play a bridging role, able to bring gas to Europe while it still needs it and can provide the market signals to attract it, then finding alternative homes for it as a
Also in this section
6 February 2026
The long close relationship between key supplier Qatar and pivotal buyer Japan becomes even deeper following new landmark deal
6 February 2026
Partnerships across the LNG value chain have evolved over time, growing in both complexity and importance, according to panellists at LNG2026
6 February 2026
Nigeria's mega-refinery is still trying to solve many challenges, all while its owner talks up expansion
5 February 2026
While broadly supportive of EU efforts to tackle methane emissions, representatives of the gas industry warn it could deter supply contracting if timelines and compliance requirements are not made more pragmatic
