Mitsui Seeks LNG Investments to Fuel Data Center Boom

Japanese trading house Mitsui is exploring investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects across the Middle East, the US, and Australia to meet growing demand from data centers. According to CEO Kenichi Hori, Mitsui will consider taking equity stakes or securing supply agreements with LNG and gas chemicals firms.

Hori cited booming demand for clean energy to power AI infrastructure as a key driver behind the company's strategy. He noted that Japan, one of the world's most vulnerable countries to energy import disruptions, has intensified diplomatic efforts to mitigate the impact of such disruptions.

Mitsui already has an interest in Abu Dhabi National Oil Co's Ruwais LNG export facility and is considering further investment in the Middle East. The company also partners with Woodside in Australia's North West Shelf project, the country's oldest and second-largest LNG plant.