Yamal LNG Ships 1st LNG Cargo to Japan

Russian natural gas producer Novatek announced that Yamal LNG shipped the first LNG cargo to Japan in accordance with the long-term off-take agreement with TOTAL.

It was unloaded at the Tobata LNG Terminal in accordance with the delivery schedule, said a release from Russia's largest private gas producer.

“Commencing LNG shipments to the Japanese market represents an important milestone for the Company as Japan is an important LNG market and one of the priority destinations in our LNG marketing strategy,” said Leonid Mikhelson, Novatek’s Chairman of the Management Board.

“Further development of our logistical chain using the Northern Sea Route and a transshipment terminal in Kamchatka will expand LNG supplies to Japan as well as strengthen trade and economic links between our respective countries," he added.

Novatek is currently shipping LNG to Brazil, China, India, and other countries. The company aims to expand its supply geography and increase the presence in key Asian markets.

Besides Novatek, Yamal LNG’s shareholders also include France’s Total, China’s CNPC and the Silk Road Fund.