The problem with gas turbines in Qatar. The energy marketplace can be disrupted

Key way to question

QatarEnergy announced a state of force majeure in connection with the implementation of its LNG supply contracts, including for Orlen, who received a notification of a possible hold of 2 shipments scheduled for April and May. The company's decision was taken after production was discontinued due to military attack on part of the infrastructure. Qatar is liable for about 20% of global LNG exports, which all scope the audience via the Ormuz Strait.

The movement through the Ormuz Strait, a key way in the world's gas and oil trade, almost completely stopped. Last year there were bulk carriers carrying a full of 81 million tons of LNG, or about 222 000 tonnes per day, and tankers transporting 14 million barrels of oil a day. The threats of the Iranian Revolutionary defender (IRGC), which announced an attack on all ship attempting to cross the strait, led to hundreds of units being detained at the entrances to the trail, and many others being directed on longer circular routes, resulting in a sharp increase in gas and oil prices on planet markets.

Should we look for alternatives?

Experts point out that the current crisis has not yet caused direct shortages in gas supply to Europe. This is due to the fact that the voyage of LNG ships from Qatar to the Old Continent takes about a period and units with March loads have already sailed from ports.

Undoubtedly, the Asian markets, including Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, are the most susceptible to LNG supply constraints from Qatar. Analysts indicate that these countries are already looking for alternate sources, including Australian and US producers. Despite concerns about shortages, it has long not reacted to the 4th largest LNG production – Russia, which produced 44.3 billion ml of liquid gas per year in 2025, did not announce an increase in supplies for Asia in consequence to the Qatar crisis.

The Russian MFA limited itself to diplomatic protests, condemning the attack on Iran, and laconically warned that the closure of the Ormuz Strait could origin serious turmoil in planet oil and gas markets. Vladimir Putin spoke on Wednesday evening, suggesting the anticipation of stopping gas supplies to Europe and directing them to another markets that may prove more profitable to Russia. As analysts point out, specified declarations require a large deal of distance and careful interpretation, like most Kremlin statements.