Can A Third LNG Wave Transform the Global Gas Markets

On May 20th, 2026, Mr Mark McCrory - Director of Policy and Analysis at the International Gas Union (IGU) - moderated a panel session at FLAME, discussing the transformational opportunities for the global Gas markets of the so called "3rd LNG wave".

Titled 'The 3rd LNG wave - how will it transform the global gas market?', the panel session explored what a record-setting 2025 for both LNG trade volumes and exporter numbers, as well as the current LNG crisis, mean for the next wave of LNG supply, and their implications for LNG pricing and contracting were amply discussed.

As the global LNG trade is now entangled in another shock to the global energy markets, the key drivers for its future demand become more complex and uncertain.

Joining Mr. McCrory to explore these themes were Ms Maria Rita Galli (CEO of Aktor LNG), Charbel Ali Daher (CCO - Gas & LNG at Uniper Global Commodities), Carlos de la Vega (VP, Marketing and Commercial Development - Sempra Infrastructure) and Ingvar Egeland (VP LNG, Equinor).

The panel concluded that - despite recent disruptions in supply and some demand destruction in vulnerable markets - the LNG industry enters the coming decade supported by a broad set of structural growth drivers and expanding opportunities across both established and emerging markets. Continued geographical diversification of LNG supply and the emergence of new importing countries are likely to cement LNG's growing role in global energy security and development.

Mr. McCrory said: "The dramatic events of early 2026 and their damaging effects notwithstanding, the fundamental benefits of LNG as a flexible and less emissions-intensive energy carrier remain intact. Overall, LNG is well positioned to remain a central pillar of the global energy system, supporting affordability, security and flexibility in an uncertain and rapidly changing energy landscape."