Hormuz LNG Shipments Surge Despite Security Concerns

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments through the Strait of Hormuz accelerated in September, reaching its highest monthly level since the US-Iran war began. According to S&P Global Energy data, a total of 19 LNG cargoes passed through the strategic waterway in September, up from 15 shipments recorded in June.

Eric Yep, lead analyst at S&P, noted that 'LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz accelerated in the second half of September, and if this trend continues in October, we could see monthly shipments recover to 25% of pre-war levels.'

Kpler showed a similar increase, with 21 LNG cargoes passing through the Strait of Hormuz in September, 15 more than in June. Despite ongoing security concerns, QatarEnergy-linked vessels have continued to pass through the strait in recent weeks.

The key concern is whether LNG transit through the Strait of Hormuz will continue throughout the winter, according to Yep. This depends on several factors, including whether higher exports through the strait could be perceived as a loss of control by Iran and whether convoys escorted by US naval forces will continue.