Doha, February 03 (QNA) - Senior executives and experts in liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipping have emphasized the importance of collaboration to reduce global regulatory constraints facing the maritime transport sector, while also underscoring the need to balance environmental considerations and gradually transition toward more sustainable shipping practices.

The remarks came during a session titled "LNG Shipping in an Evolving Energy Landscape" at the 21st International Conference & Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG2026), currently underway in Doha. Participants highlighted the financial strain shipping companies face in meeting sustainability requirements, warning that compliance could result in significant losses.

CEO of Nakilat, Abdullah Al Sulaiti, emphasized that the LNG transport sector requires a unified approach to achieve optimal results in a highly dynamic market. He noted that while shipping capacity and volumes are expected to grow, the industry must ensure that technological advancements and new mandates actually support the sector.

Al Sulaiti further highlighted that while safety and environmental protection remain fundamental pillars of Nakilat's operations, these priorities must be weighed against the associated costs. He expressed confidence that through collective industry efforts, the sector could successfully balance these demands and achieve exceptional results.

Al Sulaiti called on international legislators to consult with industry stakeholders before finalizing regulations, noting that unforeseen costs could jeopardize the long-term viability of shipping operations.

Carl-Antoine Saverys, CEO of Exmar, called on regulators to give shipping companies a voice in shaping policies, stressing that industry leaders know best what serves the sector's interests.

Panos Mitrou, Senior Vice President - Shipping Strategy at Lloyd's Register, expressed optimism about the future of energy transport. He pointed to rising global demand and described methane as one of the most abundant, accessible, and relatively clean energy sources available during the transition to sustainable shipping.

He argued that shipping companies must take the lead in influencing global regulatory frameworks.

Mitrou clarified that because the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is comprised of sovereign member states, its mandates are the result of extensive internal debate. He stressed that regardless of the specific outcome, the industry must adapt to these collective decisions. Furthermore, he maintained that the IMO serves as an essential protective framework for the entire sector, emphasizing the necessity of operating within its established guidelines.

Sveinung Stohle, Deputy CEO of the Angelicoussis Group, anticipated a period of significant expansion for the maritime transport sector in the coming years.

He noted the high level of optimism among senior officials at the conference regarding the industry's trajectory, suggesting that this positive outlook benefits all stakeholders. He stressed that this growth requires shipowners to commit to the continuous improvement of their operational performance. (QNA)