Qatar is rapidly bringing empty liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers back through the Strait of Hormuz, preparing to restart shipments that are expected to account for approximately one-fifth of global supply. At least four tankers, owned by Qatar's shipping arm or under long-term charter, are currently traversing the strait without hiding their locations, according to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg. This surge in traffic indicates Qatar's intent to ramp up its LNG exports.
This movement of vessels follows earlier indications that Qatar was positioning its LNG fleet in anticipation of increased activity. As of June 17, several empty LNG vessels owned by Qatar began heading back towards the Middle East, signaling Ras Laffan—the world’s largest LNG export plant—as their next destination. Another chartered vessel was also en route, all in preparation for the expected reopening of the Strait of Hormuz after a US-Iran agreement.
The resumption of significant LNG traffic through the Strait of Hormuz marks a critical development after a period of reduced activity. On June 18, Qatar brought an empty LNG tanker, the Al Hamla, back into the Persian Gulf via Hormuz for the first time since the war in Iran began, signaling preparatory steps for boosting exports. This was followed by a laden LNG carrier, the Mraikh, and an empty products tanker, the Ye Chi, crossing the strait, utilizing a route approved by Tehran for safe passages.
Earlier in May, Qatar had sent its first LNG shipment through Hormuz since the conflict began, with the Al Kharaitiyat exiting the strait and heading towards Pakistan. The recent increase in empty tankers returning to the region and laden vessels transiting the strait underscores Qatar's strategic move to capitalize on the improved geopolitical situation and resume its substantial flow of LNG to international markets.
