QatarEnergy Extends LNG Force Majeure Amid Hormuz Instability

QatarEnergy extended force majeure on liquefied natural gas supplies to buyers in Europe and Asia for another month, citing continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz. The state-owned producer notified buyers in Pakistan and Bangladesh that cargo cancellations will persist into October, while Italy's Edison SpA reported extensions into early November.

LNG shipments through the strait have remained near a standstill since two Qatari vessels were attacked in July. While some oil tankers have resumed traffic by disabling transponders or using shuttling tactics, Qatar has maintained a cautious approach due to the scarcity and high value of LNG carriers.

The current disruption follows a March attack that forced the Ras Laffan facility to operate at reduced rates. These combined events have nearly doubled LNG prices in Europe and Asia compared to prewar levels, increasing concerns over supply competition as winter approaches.