Thailand’s state-owned company PTT recently shipped an LNG (liquefied natural gas) reload cargo to Japan for the first time. The LNG cargo was shipped from Map Ta Phut regasification terminal to Tokyo Gas’ Ohgishima terminal, according to data from intelligence firm Kpler. The shipping was most likely prompted by global supply shortages and predictions of a colder winter.
This is the first LNG reload cargo from the 11.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) Thai terminal. Another Thai terminal is under construction to lift the capacity from 11.5 million tons to 19 million tons, scheduled for completion in 2022.
As the world’s largest LNG consumer, Japan is looking to broaden LNG procurement via re-export cargoes from South East Asia. Its current main suppliers include Australia, Qatar, and the United States.
Meanwhile, Thailand is in the process of liberalizing its power sector and heightening competition in the domestic market. Five firms have been granted LNG shipping licenses, including PTT, Egat (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand), Ratch Group Plc, Gulf Energy Development Plc, and B.Grimm Power Plc. The South East Asian nation aims to position itself as a regional LNG trading hub.
(Source: Today Online; Offshore Energy; Kpler)
