Qatar is beginning to move some of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers back to the Middle East, preparing to significantly increase exports once the Strait of Hormuz reopens. According to ship-tracking data, at least four empty LNG vessels owned by Qatar, as well as one chartered by the country, have started heading back toward the region after being idle or moving in other directions. All these tankers are signaling Ras Laffan, Qatar's massive LNG export plant, as their next destination. This move signals Qatar's readiness to swiftly resume its role as a major global LNG supplier after a period of disruption.
Bloomberg ship-tracking data also shows that the "Al Hamla," an empty LNG tanker owned by Qatar's state-owned shipping company, recently entered the Persian Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz. This marks the first such entry since the war in Iran began, with the vessel appearing at the Ras Laffan export facility. The ship had previously ceased transmitting signals near western India about a week prior. This underscores Qatar's intention to quickly ramp up its LNG operations and export capabilities.
QatarEnergy has communicated to its buyers that it expects to restore approximately 50% of its production capacity within one month of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz being re-established. Furthermore, the company aims to reach roughly 80% of its capacity within two months. This rapid recovery plan is crucial for global natural gas markets, which have experienced substantial price volatility due to regional disruptions. The prompt return of empty tankers signifies QatarEnergy's preparedness to load cargoes without delay once shipping routes are fully operational.
