Traders play their part in LNG market maturity
Alongside the traditional buyers and sellers, the industry’s middlemen are making a contribution to greater efficiency
The past five years have been a period of significant growth for global LNG markets. The old model of producer-to-supplier trade flow has changed, and several expert trading companies have increased their presence in the sector through enhanced capabilities and a growing network. Physical LNG volumes traded on a short-term basis have roughly doubled to 130-150mn t/yr since 2015, while volumes of JKM swaps derivatives traded have been increasing roughly threefold every year across the same period. The growing participation of expert trading companies in LNG markets should bring significant benefits to the sector. More active participation from majors, such as Shell, Total and BP, NOCs includi
Also in this section
23 January 2026
A strategic pivot away from Russian crude in recent weeks tees up the possibility of improved US-India trade relations
23 January 2026
The signing of a deal with a TotalEnergies-led consortium to explore for gas in a block adjoining Israel’s maritime area may breathe new life into the country’s gas ambitions
22 January 2026
As Saudi Arabia pushes mining as a new pillar of its economy, Saudi Aramco is positioning itself at the intersection of hydrocarbons, minerals and industrial policy
22 January 2026
New long-term deal is latest addition to country’s rapidly evolving supply portfolio as it eyes role as regional gas hub






