LNG faces growing shipping constraints
New regulations are likely to restrict an already limited pool of vessels capable of transporting gas
LNG carriers are set to remain in short supply this year, as an already tight market for the vessels narrows further due to new emission reduction regulations introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Recent years have seen sustained underinvestment in new LNG carriers, a situation that has been exacerbated by Europe turning to gas via ship to replace Russian pipeline supplies following the invasion of Ukraine. The structural shortfall will be worsened by new CO₂ emissions requirements for shipping that took effect at the start of this year. These will restrict sailing speeds for vessels that use steam turbine and dual- or tri-fuel diesel-electric engines due to their high
Also in this section
10 March 2026
From Venezuela to Hormuz, the US—backed by the most powerful military force ever assembled—is redrawing not only oil and gas flows but also the global balance of energy power
10 March 2026
By shutting the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has cut exports of distillate-rich Middle Eastern crude, jet fuel and diesel, and is holding the energy market hostage
10 March 2026
Eni’s director for global gas and LNG portfolio, Cristian Signoretto, discusses how demand will respond to rising LNG supply, and how the company is expanding its own gas and LNG operations through disciplined, capital-efficient investments
9 March 2026
Petroleum Economist analysis sees increases in output from Saudi Arabia, Venezuela and Kazakhstan among others before region’s murky descent






