Thailand throws open LNG imports to private sector

Government gives license to Gulf Energy with aim to curb energy price increase

PTT LNG terminal

Massive LNG storage tanks are seen in Rayong province in Thailand. State-owned energy giant PTT has been the country's dominant importer of LNG.  © Reuters

YOHEI MURAMATSU, Nikkei staff writer

BANGKOK -- Thailand has decided to open up imports of liquefied natural gas to the private sector, prompted by high electricity bills and diminished domestic natural gas reserves.

State-owned energy giant PTT has a near-monopoly on Thailand's supply of natural gas used to generate power. The company procures most of the LNG through long-term contracts. But Bangkok-based private electricity provider Gulf Energy Development recently obtained a license to import LNG.

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