Turkey becomes Algeria's top LNG client, displacing France, as exports decline in Q1 2026

Algeria's liquefied natural gas LNG market experienced a decline in export volumes and a redistribution of commercial flows in the first quarter of 2026. Exports decreased by 8.5% compared to the same period in 2025, reaching 2.04 million tons, the lowest quarterly level since 2013. This represents a cumulative drop of 31.5% over two years. Despite a moderate start, monthly dynamics showed a recovery, with March 2026 recording 940,000 tons, a nearly 40% increase from February, driven by increased demand for closer and more secure supplies amid European geopolitical caution. Turkey emerged as the primary client for Algerian LNG, importing 1.02 million tons, or almost 50% of exports, between January and March 2026. France, which imported 610,000 tons, fell to second place, though French demand rebounded significantly in March. The United Kingdom saw a notable increase in imports, rising from 60,000 tons in Q1 2025 to 140,000 tons in 2026. Other European markets, including Italy, Spain, and Croatia, also showed signs of diversification, with Spain returning with a single cargo of approximately 73,000 to 74,000 tons in March and Croatia importing 72,000 tons after an absence last year. These shifts indicate a gradual expansion of Algeria's European client base as countries seek to diversify their energy sources.