GAIL India explores US LNG stake to boost supply security

GAIL India, the state-run gas utility, is exploring opportunities to acquire a minority stake in a US liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project. The move comes as part of the company's strategy to diversify its LNG supplies and enhance long-term supply security for India. Industry executives familiar with the discussions reveal that GAIL is in talks with three to four LNG liquefaction and export projects in the US.

A senior industry executive confirmed that GAIL is considering investments in these projects to strengthen supply security and meet growing domestic gas demand. The company currently has an LNG portfolio of approximately 16.56 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA), sourced from various international markets, including the US, Qatar, and Australia.

The push for securing long-term LNG supplies is partly driven by the recent tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global LNG shipments. According to GAIL's FY26 annual report, 52.5% of its LNG imports are sourced from Qatar and the UAE, making the region vital for its supply chain.