The trade in liquefied natural gas (LNG) is expected to grow rapidly because of its key role in the energy transition. Many governments see it as a bridging fuel that can help them reduce their reliance on coal and other fossil fuels while the infrastructure and technologies for cleaner, renewable energy are being developed.

The demand for natural gas is expected to rise by 11% by 2030 and the industry will have to invest in the infrastructure needed to meet it. Liquefaction capacity, for example, is predicted to increase from 483 million tons per annum (MTPA) in February 2024 to 700 MTPA* by the end of the decade. Liquefaction is the thermodynamic process used to liquefy the gas so that it can be transported by ship.

The LNG market connects 20 producing regions where gas is plentiful, such as the US, Australia and Qatar, to 51 import markets where it is sorely needed*. It is a chain that spans extraction of the gas, liquefaction, shipping, regasification and storage and at every point the flow of gases and liquids must be managed by precise valve actuation.