In Q1 2024, the global market of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) experienced a bearish trend, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. In Australia, LNG prices reported at USD 9.58/MMBTU represented a significant decrease of 21% compared to the previous quarter. This drop was largely driven by abundant supply in the global market and weakened demand in key sectors, such as energy and power generation, as countries shifted towards renewable energy sources. Additionally, milder weather conditions across Asia reduced the demand for heating, contributing to the overall decline in prices.
In Q2 2024, LNG prices in Australia continued their decline trend, falling to USD 8.56/MMBTU, reflecting an 11% decrease from Q1. This decline was largely due to decreased demand from industrial sectors, particularly in China, where energy consumption fell as the manufacturing sector faced a slowdown. Furthermore, ongoing supply chain improvements and the resolution of earlier logistical issues helped stabilize supply, easing price pressure. The improvement in global shipping routes and reduced traffic at major ports made it easier to transport LNG, which helped lower transportation costs.
By early Q3 2024, the LNG market shifted towards a bullish trend, with prices in Australia rising to USD 11.37/MMBTU in August, a 6% increase from the previous month. This upward movement was fueled by a combination of factors, including heightened demand for cooling in the summer season, particularly in Southeast Asia. Additionally, supply disruptions in Europe due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and energy market shifts caused a ripple effect, pushing global LNG prices higher. In North America, the hurricane season led to temporary supply constraints, further driving up prices.
As we move into Q4 2024, the LNG market is expected to remain volatile. The upcoming winter season is likely to increase demand for heating, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, putting upward pressure on prices. At the same time, ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and potential disruptions in key LNG-producing regions such as Qatar and the USA could tighten global supply. However, the expansion of renewable energy capacity and the gradual recovery of the industrial sector may help balance the market, preventing extreme price spikes in the final quarter of 2024.