QatarEnergy Seeks Long-Term LNG Deals from US Producers Amid Capacity Shortfalls
QatarEnergy is seeking long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) contracts from US producers, including Venture Global, Cheniere, and Woodside. The company aims to replace lost volumes after Iranian attacks damaged its Ras Laffan facility in March, sidelining 12.8 million tons per year of LNG capacity for three to five years.
The discussions mark a shift from QatarEnergy's previous purchases of dozens of US spot LNG cargoes to help meet commitments to Asian clients. The company is seeking 2-3 million metric tons per annum through to 2031, according to one source.
QatarEnergy CEO Saad al-Kaabi said in March that the repairs would take years to complete. The company has renewed force majeure notices monthly, most recently extending them to November, with further extensions possible as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.