Shell has issued a fresh global warning over the stability of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, stating growing short-term disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions and ongoing insecurity in key shipping routes.
In its latest LNG Outlook 2026 report, the energy giant said instability affecting global maritime corridors particularly around the Middle East is disrupting LNG flows, delaying shipments, and tightening supply chains at a critical time for global energy security.
The company added that these disruptions could keep global LNG trade largely flat in the short term, as uncertainty continues to affect investment decisions and cargo movement across major export routes.
Despite the near-term pressure, Shell maintained a strong long-term outlook for the sector, projecting that global LNG demand could rise by around 65% by 2050.
The company attributed this growth to increasing energy consumption in Asia, rising demand for electricity from data centres, and the continued global shift away from coal toward cleaner-burning fuels.
Shell described LNG as a key transition fuel in the global energy mix, adding that while geopolitical shocks may cause temporary instability, long-term structural demand for gas remains strong.
Source: Shell