Global LNG exporters eye cautious optimism for 2026 amid surging supply and patchy demand, with Reuters noting that lower prices could revive interest in cost-sensitive markets such as Pakistan.
After a year of reduced Asian imports—including notable cuts by China, Japan, and India—exporters hope that expanded production will drive spot prices down, boosting affordability and consumption in emerging economies facing energy needs.
Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gas-supply-in-karachi-disrupted-amid-reduced-output-from-two-gas-fields/
Opportunities for Pakistan’s Energy Security Pakistan stands to benefit significantly if global LNG prices soften in 2026. As a price-sensitive importer reliant on long-term contracts (primarily from Qatar), lower international benchmarks could ease the financial strain from high regasified LNG (RLNG) costs that have constrained industrial and power sector use.
Bullish forecasts suggest this could encourage higher utilization of imported gas for electricity generation and industrial revival, supporting economic growth amid efforts to stabilize macro conditions through IMF support and lower interest rates. Earlier projections from mid-2025 anticipated steady or slightly rising LNG demand (around 1,000-1,200 MMcf/d) tied to improved stability, and cheaper cargoes could align with this by reducing diversion needs and enabling fuller contract uptake.
This would enhance energy availability, reduce reliance on expensive alternatives, and aid in bridging domestic gas shortfalls without straining foreign reserves further.