Middle East Conflict Causes Seven-Year Low in Asia's LNG Imports
Asia's imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) have reached a seven-year low for March, primarily due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Qatar's declaration of force majeure following Iranian missile strikes. The Gas Exporting Countries Forum reported a 4.3% drop in LNG imports compared to the previous year, with significant reductions from key buyers like China, India, and Pakistan. The conflict has disrupted supply chains, forcing countries like Thailand and Taiwan to seek alternative sources from Canada and the U.S.