The Fukushima nuclear crisis could prove a turning point in Qatari efforts to reclaim market share in Japan, where buyers have been sidelining the Mideast supplier in recent years in favor of long-term deals with Australia and Papua New Guinea - including some led by Qatar's partners Exxon Mobil, Royal Dutch Shell and Total (WGI Jun.22'11,p1). Previously known for its bullish position, Qatar has now lowered its pricing expectations in a bid to win new deals in Japan, which offers higher netbacks than Europe. Slim progress in firming up Qatar's Chinese deals provides added impetus.
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