Japan, one of the biggest importers of LNG, recently imported its first liquefied shale gas cargo from the United States earlier this year. Sources state that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is considering increasing energy imports from the United States, meaning that Japan can start to lessen its dependence on the Middle East for its LNG requirements.
Gavin Sutcliffe, Head of the Gastech conference programme states: “The emergence of new regasification hubs is challenging the traditional markets, and we are seeing countries like the United States making rapid strides in the sector. Despite Japan ratifying the Paris Climate Change Agreement, demand for LNG is expected to remain strong. So, we can expect to see Japan forming partnerships with other emerging LNG producers.”
The topic of ‘LNG and emerging markets’ will be focused on during the upcoming Gastech Exhibition and Conference. Taking place between the 4th and the 7th of April, the event will bring together the key players within the energy market. It will be hosted by the ten biggest energy companies in Japan, including JERA, Mitsubishi Corporation, Mitsui & Co., Tokyo Gas, INPEX Corporation and JAPEX.
