Hormuz LNG carrier crossings gain momentum but force majeures cap return to norm
- Singapore-flagged Mihzem becomes the fourth LNG carrier to exit the Middle East Gulf and is en route to Karachi
- Qatar has ordered vessels to switch AIS transponders back on — an abrupt reversal of instructions issued yesterday telling ships to go dark
- Other LNG carriers could follow suit, especially with agreements reportedly in place to allow safe passage to Pakistan and Iraq
- But force majeures in Qatar limit cargo availability, restricting movement even if freedom of navigation is restored
Asia faces challenges with Qatari LNG seemingly lost amid the seasonal rise in demand, as political negotiations wield a bigger influence on shipments rather than market fundamentals
