Japan reports price rises in both contracted and delivered spot LNG cargoes amid steady demand
Japanese spot LNG prices for contracted and delivered cargoes increased in November from the previous month, while no year-on-year comparison was possible for fixed contracted volumes as in November 2019 no price was issued as the minimum number of shipments was not attained.
Japanese LNG imports fall again led by Asia but offset by Qatar and Australia as thermal coal preferred
Japanese liquefied natural gas imports fell again last month after a brief rebound the previous month as Asian and US deliveries dropped, offset by more cargoes from nations like Qatar and Australia, while thermal coal was preferred to LNG.
Japanese LNG purchases may rise in 2020 as four N-plants close for anti-terror measures
The Japan Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) has taken a firm line on enforcing stricter anti-terrorism measures at nuclear plants meaning that four of the current nine operational facilities face shutdowns in 2020 and more LNG or thermal coal imports will be required.
