LNG Bunker Prices Diverge: Rotterdam Slips, Singapore Rises

• LNG bunker prices in Rotterdam decreased slightly, while Singapore saw a moderate price increase this week, reflecting regional market dynamics and weather forecasts.
• Europe’s continued reliance on LNG and competitive demand in Asia underpins global LNG market trends.

Baltic Exchange reports that weekly changes in LNG bunker prices reflect divergent regional trends in Rotterdam and Singapore, shaped by weather patterns, market competition, and infrastructure developments.

Rotterdam LNG Market

LNG bunker price decreased by $2/mt to $877/mt.

The drop aligns with an increase in Dutch TTF Natural Gas contract prices.

Colder-than-average temperatures across Northern Europe prevented a steeper decline in gas prices.

Forecasts and Outlook

Milder weather is expected next week, potentially stabilizing prices.

Europe remains a premium LNG market due to reduced Russian gas supplies.

EU’s 90% gas reserve target for November 2025 highlights reliance on LNG, with imports projected to rise by 18% year-on-year to 101.1 million mt in 2025.

Singapore LNG Market

LNG bunker price increased by $8/mt to $914/mt.

Market Driver’s gains reflect an increase in the NYMEX Japan/Korea Marker (JKM) contract.

Colder weather in Northeast Asia is forecasted, though immediate LNG cargo demand remains subdued.

Forecasts and Competitive Dynamics

Intensifying competition between European and Asian buyers for LNG cargoes as winter deepens.

ANZ Bank highlights the ongoing struggle to secure cargo.

Kpler revised its December forecast for Chinese LNG imports downward due to increased capacity on the Russia-China Power of Siberia pipeline, which will reach its contracted maximum of 104 million cbm/day this month.