Implications of Qatar's mega-order are more than meets the eye

摘要

News that Qatar Petroleum (QP) has reserved newbuilding berths for more than 100 LNG carriers from South Korean shipyards by 2027 has generated debate within LNG shipping and the shipbuilding industry regarding the implications of the potential deal. This is especially so given the quote from Qatar's energy minister that this would represent 60% of global LNG carrier shipbuilding capacity. The South Korean orders are in addition to the reservation of up to eight firm and eight optional newbuilding slots at Ghina's Hudong Zhonghua for delivery from 2024. The latter depends on a number of conditions being met, such as Chinese purchases of Qatari LNG.