The Energy Minister of Qatar, Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, recently discussed the potential impact of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's plans to increase liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.
Al Kaabi acknowledged that global demand for gas will continue to grow, regardless of the source. He welcomed increased competition in the LNG market and emphasized that any significant increase in U.S. LNG exports would depend on the commercial viability of new projects.
Al Kaabi also highlighted the long lead time for establishing new LNG facilities, which means that market dynamics will be influenced by supply and demand factors over the long term.
The competition between Qatar and the U.S. as leading LNG suppliers has intensified, particularly with Europe's decision to reduce reliance on Russian gas. Al Kaabi cautioned that the establishment of new export facilities is a complex process that requires careful planning and investment.
Al Kaabi also addressed the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), expressing concern about the potential penalties for non-compliance and the impact on European businesses and foreign investment in the EU. The Qatar Investment Authority and other fund managers may reconsider their investment strategies in light of the CSDDD.
The interplay between U.S. and Qatari LNG exports, along with regulatory developments in Europe, will shape the future of energy supply and investment strategies.