Key facts
- Thailand's state-owned PTT is in early talks to invest in U.S. LNG export projects.
- The goal is to secure long-term LNG supply and avoid volatile spot market purchases.
- Disruptions in the Middle East have accelerated discussions.
- PTT is reportedly in talks with developers like Woodside Energy for its Louisiana LNG plant.
- Thailand has a prior agreement to purchase $5.4 billion annually in U.S. energy products, including LNG.
- PTT has also signed a cooperation agreement for potential participation in the Alaska LNG project.
Thailand's state-owned energy firm PTT is reportedly in preliminary discussions with developers of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects to invest in facilities and secure long-term supply. This strategic move aims to mitigate risks associated with volatile spot market purchases during supply crises, such as the current disruptions impacting shipments through the Middle East.
Sources indicate that PTT is engaging with multiple developers, including Australia's Woodside Energy, which is constructing an LNG export plant in Louisiana. Woodside is seeking firm, long-term commitments for its newly approved facility, with interest reportedly increasing following supply disruptions originating from the Middle East. Liz Westcott, CEO of Woodside Energy, noted this heightened buyer interest in a recent interview.
PTT has stated its intention to broaden its LNG supply portfolio, with the U.S. being one of several countries under consideration. The urgency for Thailand, a major LNG importer in Southeast Asia, to find alternative, long-term supply sources not reliant on the Strait of Hormuz has intensified due to recent geopolitical events affecting shipments from Qatar.
This pursuit of U.S. LNG follows a broader commitment made by Thailand in October 2025 to purchase U.S. energy products, including LNG, crude oil, and ethane, valued at an estimated $5.4 billion annually. Furthermore, PTT has signed a cooperation agreement for potential strategic participation in the Alaska LNG project, which is strongly supported by the Trump Administration. This agreement includes a potential procurement of 2 million tonnes per annum of LNG from the project over a 20-year term, although a final investment decision on the $44 billion Alaska LNG project has not yet been made.