LNG changes in the Middle East

Qatar reserved slots at South Korean shipyards for more than 100 new building LNG carriers through to 2027 earlier in June, after it postponed in February the selection of partners in its expansion project from the end of the first quarter to September. The move has been interpreted as a message to its competitors that it will go ahead with its expansion plans, even as economies and investment slow in reaction to the global coronavirus pandemic. But it could also prove practical decision making for the world’s biggest producer. In the meantime, a long market could give the UAE the opportunity to up its LNG imports this year, even as it turns to alternative energy sources. In this podcast Europe LNG editor Hal Brown and senior reporter Clare Pennington discuss:- Options for Qatar’s future fleet, and why the producer could go for conventional vessels - Why Qatar’s mega ships may be less economic in current market environment and whether it could take advantage of discounts - Qatargas contracts still in negotiation in Asia put on hold - How the United Arab Emirates is taking advantage of long supply and a favourable buyer environment - The price environment could see UAE import more than 1.7 million tonnes this year