Liquefied natural gas suppliers, including Shell Plc and Oman's OQ, are declaring force majeure on customers across Asia due to the shutdown at the world's largest LNG export plant in Qatar. This indicates the supply disruption is extending beyond Qatar's direct customers, highlighting the country's critical role in the global gas market.

Scope and Impact of the Disruption

The declarations affect customers in Asia, with OQ specifically declaring force majeure to a customer in Bangladesh. Analysts note this is a sign of a broader supply crisis, with one expert stating an energy ecosystem in delicate balance is now "abruptly in flames," impacting many exporters and importers.

Cause of the Supply Halt

The disruption stems from the shutdown of the massive Ras Laffan LNG plant in Qatar, the largest single plant of its kind globally. The plant shut down following a drone attack. QatarEnergy, which operates the plant in partnership with Shell, has itself declared force majeure on its LNG supply.