Middle East Crisis Accelerates U.S.-Thailand LNG Supply Talks

The sudden halt of liquefied natural gas (LNG) flows from the Middle East has prompted Asian buyers to seek long-term solutions to secure supply from sources not needing the blocked Strait of Hormuz. As Qatar’s LNG shipments are under force majeure until at least mid-August and full LNG export capacity may not be restored for another five years, LNG customers are looking to sign long-term supply deals with exporters outside of conflict areas. Thailand, the top LNG importer in Southeast Asia, is now looking to boost its U.S. gas supply to meet part of its demand in the long term….