QatarEnergy seeks US LNG deals through to 2031, sources say

• QatarEnergy Trading is seeking 2-3 million metric tons per annum through 2031, with force majeure notices extended monthly through November and potentially beyond
• The damaged infrastructure has taken out 12.8 million tons per year of LNG capacity, affecting deliveries to Asian clients who comprise about 80% of Qatar's typical LNG exports
• Analysts interpret the long-term contract pursuit as signaling that Qatar expects the Strait of Hormuz disruption to be longer-lasting and infrastructure damage more extensive than initially anticipated

QatarEnergy Pursues Long-Term US LNG Contracts Following Iranian Attack

QatarEnergy is negotiating multi-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) contracts with U.S. producers through 2031 to replace production capacity lost from Iranian strikes on its facilities, according to industry sources. Discussions are underway with Venture Global, Cheniere, and Woodside.

Key Damage and Production Impact:

Iranian attacks in March 2026 damaged two of QatarEnergy's 14 LNG trains and a gas-to-liquids facility at Ras Laffan, sidelining 12.8 million tons per year of LNG capacity. CEO Saad al-Kaabi indicated repairs would take three to five years. The company has extended force majeure notices monthly, most recently through November, as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.

Contract Specifications:

QatarEnergy Trading is seeking 2-3 million metric tons per annum through 2031, marking a shift from short-term cargo purchases to longer-term supply solutions. The company previously managed 10 million tons of LNG portfolio annually.

Market Implications:

The pursuit of long-term contracts signals Qatar's concern about extended disruption risks and more extensive infrastructure damage than initially anticipated. With approximately 80% of Qatar's LNG typically exported to Asia, regional buyers are seeking alternatives amid supply uncertainty. Some market participants are stress-testing scenarios assuming no Qatari gas availability.

According to Saul Kavonic of MST Marquee, this development indicates Qatar expects multi-year export challenges and suggests the Strait of Hormuz closure may prove longer-lasting than hoped. The situation has significant implications for global LNG markets, particularly in Asia, where Qatar is a major supplier.