Qatar Brings Empty LNG Ships Into Gulf in Potential Export Boost

By Stephen Stapczynski and Ruth Liao

Oct 7, 2026 (Bloomberg) –Qatar has amassed a fleet of empty liquefied natural gas tankers in the Persian Gulf, a sign that one of the world’s biggest exporters of the fuel may be preparing to boost shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

At least 12 ballast LNG carriers owned or chartered by QatarEnergy are waiting in waters near the country, according to a Bloomberg News analysis of satellite images and ship-tracking data. Together, the vessels can hold about 1.1 million tons of LNG, or roughly 2% of the carrying capacity of the entire global tanker fleet.