Why is Argentina seeking LNG imports despite its growing domestic gas production from Vaca Muerta?

Argentina is seeking LNG imports to meet seasonal winter heating demand spikes — which begin in May and last through September — even as domestic production ramps up in the Vaca Muerta shale patch, because current infrastructure (e.g., pipelines) is still insufficient to fully deliver that gas to residential and industrial centers in time for peak demand; Enarsa is therefore considering up to 20 LNG cargoes through October to bridge the gap.

How has the war in the Middle East affected Argentina's LNG procurement plans?

The war has severely constrained global LNG supply — particularly from Qatar and the UAE — due to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to Qatar’s Ras Laffan export facility in March — squeezing an already tight market just as Argentina seeks cargoes for its Southern Hemisphere winter, pushing up expected import prices but not derailing procurement, as evidenced by Enarsa’s recent requests for May cargoes and its first cargo purchase of the year.

Argentina Hunts for LNG Imports for Winter in War-Wrecked Market

Apr 28, 2026

Argentina's Enarsa plans to buy up to 20 LNG cargoes for winter heating amid Middle East supply disruptions. This demand occurs despite declining import trends due to domestic shale gas production growth.

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Argentina Hunts for LNG Imports for Winter in War-Wrecked Market

Argentina Hunts for LNG Imports for Winter in War-Wrecked Market

FAQ