Global LNG rises by 3.4%

Global LNG demand is forecast to increase by 3.4 per cent annually over 2022-2026 to reach 444 million metric tons

Countries and companies are seeing LNG as a cleaner fossil fuel that can lower emissions, but supply is expected to be tight until around 2026, when new projects are scheduled to start operating.

Ensuring diversity of supply sources is likely to prove crucial for energy security in Japan, according to Hori. We have projects in the US, Middle East and Africa, he said.

When asked about whether Mitsui is interested in signing a contract with Qatar, which has been seeking buyers from its huge output expansion, Hori said, the Middle Eastern nation is an important source of LNG as Japan pursues further diversification.