Arab gas producers' LNG exports fall by nearly a quarter in early 2026

11 articles · Updated · Arabian Gulf Business Insight · Apr 29

Exports dropped to 22 million tonnes in Q1 2026 from 29 million tonnes a year earlier, with Qatar's output down over a third due to Iranian missile strikes and Hormuz closure.
UAE LNG exports plunged 39% to 1 million tonnes, while Algeria and Oman saw smaller changes. The Arab share of global LNG trade fell below 20% for the first time in years.
The decline comes as regional producers, especially Qatar, had planned major capacity expansions. The conflict and supply disruptions may reshape global energy markets and prompt some economies to turn to alternative fuels.

With Qatar's LNG offline for years, how will the world replace 20% of its gas supply?

Will this crisis accelerate the shift to renewables or entrench fossil fuel dependency?

How will the crippling helium shortage from Qatar's shutdown impact the tech and medical industries?

Iran's strategy is 'Don't Calibrate—Escalate.' What critical infrastructure will be the next target?

As fertilizer and food prices skyrocket, could this energy war trigger a global famine?

With the Strait of Hormuz closed, what is the endgame for the US naval blockade?