Belgium calls for tracking system for Russian LNG

Belgium is urging the implementation of a tracking system to effectively enforce the new European sanctions against Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG). Energy minister Tinne Van der Straeten made the announcement prior to a meeting with her European counterparts in Luxembourg on Tuesday.

Just before the summer, the 27 EU member states agreed to prohibit the transshipment of Russian LNG. Starting in March 2025, LNG from Russia will no longer be allowed to be transferred to other ships in European ports for delivery to other parts of the world. This measure is intended to significantly impact Russia’s revenue from LNG sales and transportation.

Belgium is a crucial parner for the EU to carry out these sanctions because its LNG terminal in Zeebrugge is a key transshipment point.

“We have observed a doubling of LNG volumes in Belgium. These volumes are likely intended for supply security within Europe, but we are facing challenges in implementing the sanctions package,” Van der Straeten said.

Belgium is therefore advocating for a tracking system to detect Russian LNG. Additionally, the country calls on the European Commission to develop a coordinated approach for member states that import LNG. “The sanctions must be effective to prevent the Russian war machine from being sustained,” Van der Straeten said.

She has previously also called for a European ban on LNG imports. She emphasised the need for a strong European legal framework that would enable companies to terminate their long-term contracts with Russian suppliers.

^{​#FlandersNewsService | An LNG gas transporting ship at the liquid gas terminal of Fluxys, in Zeebrugge port © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}