Qatar LNG Fleet Prepares for Export Restart Amid Repairs

Key Moments

Qatar Moves LNG Fleet Back Toward Home Waters

Qatar has started bringing LNG carriers back as it prepares for a restart of exports. However, repairs at Ras Laffan continue after an explosion at the site on Sunday.

Meanwhile, shipping data cited by Bloomberg shows three QatarEnergy LNG carriers moving toward the Strait of Hormuz from the Gulf of Oman. In addition, five more tankers sit near Oman, while others head back toward Qatar.

Output Plans After Force Majeure

Qatar declared force majeure after strikes on Ras Laffan disrupted operations. As a result, LNG exports slowed sharply in recent weeks.

Earlier, QatarEnergy had already cut production in March. Later, missile strikes hit one of its liquefaction units at Ras Laffan. Since then, the company has outlined a phased recovery plan.

According to Bloomberg sources, output could return to about 50% within one month once safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz resumes. Furthermore, production could reach 80% within two months.

Strait of Hormuz Remains the Key Constraint

Recovery depends on tanker traffic returning to normal levels through the Strait of Hormuz. However, conditions remain uncertain despite signs of diplomatic progress between the United States and Iran.

At the same time, tensions in Lebanon continue to complicate negotiations. Iran calls for an end to Israeli operations, while Israel says it will continue its campaign.

Therefore, a full normalization of LNG and crude flows may still take time.

Ras Laffan Damage and Long-Term Impact

QatarEnergy estimates that damage at Ras Laffan could reduce annual revenue by around $20 billion. In addition, full restoration work may take up to five years to complete.