Turkey can export LNG as well as pipeline gas to Europe

The recently approved bill by the Turkish Parliament will allow Turkey to export liquefied natural gas (LNG) to European countries. This was stated by Yashar Arslan, the head of the Turkish Gas Distributors Association (GAZBİR).

On 2 May, the Turkish Parliament voted in favour of a bill regulating natural gas markets. Mr Arslan highlighted that the term "liquefaction" had been added to the Natural Gas Marketing Law. Experts previously noted that the law coincides with the goals of the gas hub project proposed by Russia in Turkey. Russia is one of the largest suppliers of natural gas to Turkey.

“With the addition of this term to the law, Turkey will be able to sell LNG to European countries, especially to neighbouring countries,” the expert explained.

Yashar Arslan stated that approximately 40% of the 450 billion cubic metres of gas that Europe requires annually is met through LNG supplies. Two to three years ago, this figure was at the level of 30-35%.

According to the regulator EPDK, Turkey imported more than 50 billion cubic metres of gas in 2023, of which 30% was in the form of LNG.

Yashar Arslan highlighted that the contract for the supply of over 36 billion cubic metres of pipeline gas by Ankara to Europe will expire imminently. The contract is designed for the period 2025-2027.

Arslan emphasised that Turkey is "at the very centre of the natural gas supply and demand bridge."

"Our position allows natural gas to be delivered faster to countries that will import it in the event of production surpluses that may arise, especially in Russia and Azerbaijan. In the coming years, given Turkey's existing import contracts and increased production capacity, trade opportunities with Turkey's neighbours, especially in Eastern Europe, can be improved," he noted.