Switzerland based energy trader MET Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Shell for the potential purchase of approximately 0.5 million tonnes per annum of liquefied natural gas between 2027 and 2033, marking another step in Europe’s efforts to secure long term energy supplies.
Under the proposed arrangement, the LNG would be sourced primarily from Shell’s United States portfolio. While the agreement remains non binding at this stage, it outlines the framework for a multi year supply relationship aimed at strengthening Europe’s access to diversified gas sources.
The companies also plan to explore broader cooperation in LNG and gas trading. This includes facilitating deliveries into European regasification terminals and leveraging the so called Vertical Gas Corridor, a strategic route that links Greece with central Europe and Ukraine. The corridor has gained prominence as European governments prepare for a full phaseout of Russian pipeline gas imports by the end of 2027.
Market participants expect competition for long term LNG contracts to intensify as the deadline approaches. Europe has significantly increased LNG imports since 2022, replacing Russian pipeline flows with shipments from the United States, Qatar and other global suppliers. Securing stable supply agreements has become central to energy security planning across the region.
For MET Group, the memorandum builds on an existing relationship with Shell. In 2024, the two companies entered into a 10 year LNG purchase agreement tied to U.S. supply. The new understanding expands the scope of cooperation and underscores the growing importance of transatlantic gas trade in reshaping Europe’s energy landscape.
MET has delivered LNG into 17 European markets, with Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy and Croatia among its most active destinations. Beyond Europe, the company has also supplied LNG to Asian buyers including China, India, Japan and South Korea, reflecting the global nature of LNG trading flows.
Shell, one of the world’s largest LNG suppliers, continues to position its U.S. export portfolio as a key pillar of long term supply contracts. American LNG projects have expanded rapidly in recent years, benefiting from abundant shale gas production and strong international demand.
The memorandum signals continued alignment between European energy traders and global LNG majors as policymakers push for diversified and secure gas supplies. While renewable energy deployment is accelerating across Europe, natural gas remains a critical bridge fuel for power generation and industrial demand.
If finalized, the agreement would contribute to Europe’s strategy of reducing reliance on single source suppliers and strengthening infrastructure links across the continent. As long term contracts are negotiated ahead of 2027, partnerships such as this are likely to shape the next phase of Europe’s energy transition.
