Shell Declares Force Majeure on Qatari Gas, Threatening Global Market Stability.

Shell Issues Force Majeure Following Qatari Facility Shutdown

According to TSN.ua: Energy giant Shell has declared force majeure on liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes sourced from QatarEnergy, following an operational halt at a facility in Qatar. This disruption has triggered significant concern in global energy markets, given QatarEnergy's position as the world's second-largest LNG exporter. Other major firms, including TotalEnergies, have also received notifications suspending sales of Qatari gas.

Gas Supply Impact and Timeline

The shutdown involves a facility with an annual capacity of 77 million tons, which will substantially affect global gas supplies. Shell handles approximately 6.8 million tons of Qatari LNG per year, while TotalEnergies manages around 5.2 million tons. The most severe supply shortages and market deficits are projected to begin in April 2026.

Saad al-Kaabi, a QatarEnergy representative, stated: 'The process of returning to normal supply volumes could take a considerable amount of time.'

He added that 'restoring supplies will require weeks or months, even if the war ends today.' These developments could significantly impact global energy prices, including the diesel fuel market. In Ukraine, for instance, diesel prices have already surged by 5 hryvnias, reaching 75.99 UAH per liter. This situation underscores the critical importance of stable LNG supplies for the global energy market and highlights the interconnected nature of modern energy trade.

Supply interruptions from Qatar could lead to rising energy costs not only in Ukraine but also in other nations reliant on LNG imports. As events unfold, market analysts and participants must prepare for potential shifts in pricing structures and energy policy, as the stability of one of the world's key gas suppliers is now in question.