LNG procurement strategies shift as buyers respond to supply disruption

Disruption to Middle Eastern LNG flows is prompting buyers to reassess how they secure supply and manage geopolitical risk. Geographic diversification, more flexible purchasing arrangements and stronger contractual protections are emerging as central elements of LNG procurement strategies.

A new McKinsey survey of LNG buyers indicates that the disruption to transit through the Strait of Hormuz could have lasting consequences for the global market.

Around 80% of respondents expect to change their LNG procurement strategies, with buyers divided almost equally between those anticipating incremental adjustments and those preparing for more structural change.

The survey covered 30 respondents from oil and gas companies, integrated energy groups, trading houses and power and gas utilities. Participants represented 14 countries accounting for approximately 80% of the global LNG market.

Although the sample is relatively small, the findings provide a useful indication of how procurement priorities are evolving.

Asian buyers generally expect more significant changes than their European counterparts. This reflects the importance of Middle Eastern LNG within Asian supply portfolios and the potential exposure of deliveries passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Geographic diversification is the clearest priority. Some 93% of respondents plan to increase the number and geographic range of their suppliers over the next two to three years. Buyers are also considering greater contractual and destination flexibility, portfolio optimisation and measures that allow cargoes to be redirected when market conditions change.

Contractual protections are another area of focus. Just over half of respondents expect to strengthen contract provisions, with force majeure clauses receiving the most attention. Delivery terms, volume flexibility and pricing clauses are also likely to face greater scrutiny as buyers seek protection against prolonged or recurring disruption.

Investment strategies are changing alongside procurement practices. Two-thirds of respondents said companies like theirs are investing in measures designed to improve resilience.

Storage infrastructure was the most frequently cited investment, followed by shipping capacity, upstream equity, floating storage and regasification units, regasification facilities and interconnectors.

However, buyers are less certain that their internal capabilities are sufficient for a more volatile market. Only 28% consider their trading capabilities fully adequate, while just 25% say the same about risk management.

The findings point to a broader movement away from procurement based primarily on cost optimisation. Security of supply, portfolio flexibility and the ability to respond quickly to disruption are becoming increasingly important in LNG purchasing decisions.

Source: McKinsey & Company – LNG buyers’ sentiment: Disruption and implications for procurement