Qatari LNG Unlikely to Return Soon Amid Global Supply Tightening

The head of Japan's Jera, the world's largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) buyer, warned that Qatari LNG is unlikely to return soon. This comes as global supplies remain tight due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Jera's chairman and CEO, Yukio Kani, stated during an interview with Bloomberg, 'We don't expect Qatar LNG coming back to the market soon.'

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping route for energy supplies, particularly from Qatar and the UAE. Despite an increase in transit volume in September, it remains 80% below pre-war levels.

Kani also noted that spot LNG prices have more than doubled since last year, reaching their highest level since late 2022. He expressed concern about the upcoming winter season, warning that 'Europe may be in a very difficult situation' if they are unable to secure sufficient energy supplies.