Qatar Shifts Empty LNG Ships Ahead of Possible Hormuz Export Resumption

Qatar's liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports have been severely disrupted in recent months due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, according to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg, six empty Qatari LNG carriers are now heading towards the Gulf of Oman, suggesting a possible pivot in the country's export strategy.

These vessels are currently empty, indicating that they may be preparing for an eventual resumption of exports through the Hormuz. This would be a significant development, given that Qatar has all-but halted shipments since one of its tankers was attacked in late July. The attack led to a sharp increase in global LNG prices as buyers scrambled for replacement supply.

QatarEnergy has continued loading LNG onto available empty tankers inside the gulf, but there are now 15 idle carriers carrying Qatari gas behind Hormuz. This lack of exports has caused significant disruptions to Asian and European markets, where shortages and power blackouts have become a pressing concern.