Russian gas exports may see uptick in fourth quarter

Significance

Before the COVID-19 related downturn in demand, Gazprom's position as Europe's dominant supplier was challenged by higher liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports. The company is being threatened with further US sanctions as the Nord Stream 2 pipeline nears completion.

Impacts

• Novatek's innovative Arctic projects place it ahead of Gazprom on LNG development and it will remain a serious competitor.
• Gazprom is determined to boost its own LNG capacity with a third unit at its Sakhalin-2 plant and a new LNG plant in Leningrad region.
• Low gas prices will be a deterrent to sudden spikes in LNG imports to Europe.