Indian state-owned gas major GAIL (India) Limited has bought a cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Oman to help meet the country’s rising energy needs at a time when global supplies face pressure.
Trade sources familiar with the matter said GAIL picked up the prompt cargo through direct negotiations with a European trader. The fixed price agreed was between $17 and $20 per million British thermal units (mmBtu), a standard pricing unit for natural gas.
The LNG is already loaded on the vessel Orion Hugo, which is under charter by Shell. Shipping data shows the cargo is expected to reach Indian shores around March 15.
India, the world’s fourth-largest LNG buyer, has been working hard to keep gas flowing smoothly to power plants, factories and city gas networks. Recent tensions in West Asia have disrupted shipments from key supplier Qatar, making alternative sources like Oman important right now.
This quick spot purchase shows GAIL’s focus on keeping supplies steady for Indian customers. Oman has long been a reliable LNG partner for India, and deals like this help reduce risks when traditional routes face problems.
GAIL has not issued any official statement on the purchase so far. The company regularly updates its website and stock exchange filings for major developments.
The development comes just days after GAIL and other buyers were scouting for March deliveries to cover shortfalls caused by shipping constraints in the Strait of Hormuz.
