QatarEnergy has extended its suspension of liquefied natural gas (LNG) deliveries to Italy until early November, prolonging disruption to one of Europe’s major energy markets. The state-owned Qatari energy company has cancelled five additional LNG cargoes scheduled between late September and early November for Italian utility Edison.
The latest cancellations bring the total number of suspended cargoes under the agreement to 29, highlighting the continuing impact of disruptions linked to the conflict involving Iran and the United States. QatarEnergy declared force majeure on certain LNG contracts after damage to energy infrastructure and instability around the Strait of Hormuz disrupted exports.
Edison has a long-term agreement with QatarEnergy for approximately 6.4 billion cubic metres of natural gas annually, equivalent to around 10 per cent of Italy’s total gas consumption. The Italian company has been seeking alternative supplies to offset the cancelled shipments.
The prolonged suspension could add further pressure to European gas markets, particularly as buyers compete for replacement LNG cargoes. The development also underscores Europe’s vulnerability to disruptions along critical Middle Eastern energy routes.
