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Kuwait in talks with Qatar Energy for 15-Year LNG supply agreement

August 21, 2024 at 8:43 pm

Logo of QatarEnergy, formerly Qatar Petroleum on September 18, 2023 [Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images]

Kuwait is in advanced negotiations with Qatar Energy for a long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreement, sources close to the discussions revealed. The proposed deal, which could span 15 years, is aimed at securing Kuwait’s energy needs as the nation seeks to bolster its energy security and meet growing domestic demand.

The agreement would position Qatar Energy, one of the world’s leading LNG producers, as a key supplier to Kuwait, ensuring a steady flow of LNG to the Gulf state. The deal is expected to cover significant volumes, though specific figures have not been disclosed as negotiations continue.

Kuwait, which relies heavily on LNG imports to power its electricity generation and industrial sectors, has been exploring options to diversify its energy supply sources. This potential agreement with Qatar Energy would be one of the largest and longest-running LNG deals for the country, reflecting Kuwait’s strategic move to lock in long-term energy resources amid fluctuating global energy markets.

Qatar Energy, for its part, continues to expand its global LNG export portfolio, leveraging its vast natural gas reserves. The prospective deal with Kuwait aligns with Qatar’s strategy to secure long-term contracts with key regional and international partners, solidifying its position as a dominant player in the global LNG market.

Industry analysts suggest that the agreement, once finalised, could provide Kuwait with more stable energy prices and reliable supply, particularly during peak demand periods. Additionally, the deal underscores the deepening energy ties between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, as regional players increasingly collaborate to meet their energy needs in a challenging geopolitical environment.

Both parties are reportedly working towards finalising the agreement by the end of the year, with an official announcement expected soon. The deal is anticipated to commence in 2025, coinciding with the completion of Kuwait’s LNG import infrastructure upgrades, which are designed to handle increased volumes and improve supply chain efficiency.

As the negotiations progress, the potential 15-year LNG supply agreement between Kuwait and Qatar Energy could mark a significant milestone in the energy sector, reinforcing the importance of long-term planning and cooperation among neighbouring Gulf states.

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