Positive omens for LNG carriers in 2026

The global LNG carrier market is in a phase of increased volatility, but also of intense opportunities, as the geopolitical realignment of energy flows, Europe’s strategic shift away from Russian natural gas and the rise of American LNG production redefine the balance of supply and demand.

The latest analysis by the shipping brokerage Intermodal clearly shows that, despite restrained demand in some markets, the LNG freight market is in a phase of strong recovery, with 2026 being predicted as a turning point.

Specifically, analysts estimate that next year could see a strong recovery in LNG demand and ton-miles, provided that new liquefaction plants come online, Asian demand increases, and there are no serious trade tensions.

At the same time, the gradual and legally binding ban on Russian LNG imports from Europe by the third quarter of 2027 is expected to further strengthen the US position and increase transatlantic flows.

In this environment, LNG carriers are emerging as one of the hottest shipping sectors, with high revenue visibility, a strong freight market and an increasing strategic role in the energy transition.

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Freight “explosion”

According to Intermodal, the most striking element of the report concerns the LNG freight market. The spot market recorded an explosive increase in November, as increased activity in the West caused a shortage of available tonnage.

The index for 174,000 cbm LNG carriers started the month at 59,750/day and closed at 110,000/day, levels not seen since December 2023.

This is a 4.5-fold increase compared to mid-October and almost three times the average for the year.

Correspondingly, οne-year time charters strengthened to 42,000/day, up 43% compared to October.

The market is in a state of intense mobility, with shipowners and charterers trying to balance high freight rates with future ship supply.