Germany Faces LNG Contract Issues Amid New EU Methane Regulations

German gas importers are reporting difficulties with LNG contracts due to upcoming EU methane regulations, effective January 2027. These regulations require stricter emissions reporting across the gas supply chain, adding complexity and uncertainty to commercial negotiations.

Companies like Uniper and Sefe express concerns over potential additional costs and delays, which may hinder LNG imports. Major suppliers, including US exporters and Qatar, are also pushing for a delay in these requirements, citing regulatory uncertainty. As the EU reduces reliance on Russian gas, the market dynamics are shifting, potentially increasing dependence on already strained global LNG supplies.