Egypt Resumes Gas Flow to LNG Facilities Amid Domestic Fuel Shortages

AFRICAN BUSINESS AND ECONOMYMarch 18, 2025 at 3:03 PM UTC

TLDR

Gas deliveries have resumed to Egypt’s two liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facilities, marking a rare move after the country had to resort to imports
eedgas deliveries to the Damietta and Idku plants have increased, with the possibility of exporting a first cargo from Idku within the next year
The country’s aging gas fields, coupled with rising domestic consumption, have forced Egypt—once an LNG exporter—to halt its LNG exports

Gas deliveries have resumed to Egypt’s two liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facilities, marking a rare move after the country had to resort to imports to meet domestic demand.

Feedgas deliveries to the Damietta and Idku plants have increased, with the possibility of exporting a first cargo from Idku within the next year, according to sources familiar with the situation. However, the timing and duration of potential exports remain uncertain, as Egypt may still need to import gas to meet summer power demand.

The country’s aging gas fields, coupled with rising domestic consumption, have forced Egypt—once an LNG exporter—to halt its LNG exports and turn to the global market. This has led Egypt to compete with buyers in Asia and Europe, especially during the summer months when fuel demand surges due to air conditioning needs.

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Key Takeaways

Egypt’s struggle to balance domestic energy demands with LNG exports highlights the growing pressures on its energy sector. Once a key LNG exporter, the country’s shift to importing gas reflects both the aging of its gas fields and surging domestic consumption. With rising competition from global buyers, Egypt faces significant challenges in securing enough fuel for both export and domestic use, particularly during the summer months when demand peaks. The country’s ability to restart LNG exports, even on a limited scale, may help alleviate some financial pressures, but ongoing imports will remain critical for ensuring energy security.

Egypt

Gas

Gas Exports

LNG

Oil & Gas

Energy Exports