Hormuz Crisis Threatens Qatar's LNG Expansion Plans

The ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has potential implications for Qatar's LNG expansion projects. According to Saad al-Kaabi, CEO of QatarEnergy, the first LNG train of the North Field East (NFE) expansion is expected to start production in the first half of 2027, but further trains may be delayed due to equipment being unable to reach Qatar.

The crisis has also affected Qatar's Ras Laffan LNG export hub, where attacks have damaged two LNG trains and a gas-to-liquids plant. This has temporarily eliminated around 17% of Qatar's LNG capacity, with repairs taking up to three years for the LNG trains and expected to be completed by Q1 2027 for the GTL plant.

Kaabi stated that Qatar could restore normal gas operations within weeks after the Strait of Hormuz reopens, although LNG production is currently very limited. Additionally, QatarEnergy is expanding its LNG trading business and aims to become the world's largest LNG trader.