Yahoo Financeยท2025-09-21 23:00Core Viewpoint - The article highlights that while European oil majors like BP, Shell, TotalEnergies, and Eni are often compared unfavorably to their U.S. counterparts, they lead in the LNG trading sector, with Exxon and Chevron now seeking to expand their operations in this area [1][2]. LNG Market Demand - Shell forecasts a 60% increase in global LNG demand by 2040, driven by economic growth in Asia and the need for gas in power generation, heating, cooling, industry, and transport [3]. - European countries are expected to rely on LNG for over two-thirds of their gas supply as they transition away from Russian energy imports [4]. U.S. Energy Imports - The European Union is moving towards nearly 100% reliance on U.S. LNG imports, contingent on adjustments to methane emissions and supply chain regulations [5]. Asian Market Dynamics - Asian economies are experiencing rapid growth, leading to increased demand for LNG, with Indonesia deferring LNG exports to prioritize domestic supply [6]. Company Strategies - Shell plans to increase its LNG capacity by 12 million tons by 2030, while TotalEnergies aims for a 50% increase in LNG volumes under management by the same year [7]. - BP has initiated a new LNG project off the coast of Senegal and Mauritania, aiming to establish these countries as a significant LNG hub [7].