Qatar Hopes EU Will Address Corporate Concerns on Sustainability Laws by Year-End

Post by : Saif Nasser

Qatar is optimistic that the European Union will address companies’ concerns about new sustainability laws by the end of December. Saad al-Kaabi, Qatar’s Energy Minister, made the comments on Saturday at the Doha Forum conference.

The main issue is the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). The law could fine companies up to 5% of their global revenue if they fail to meet sustainability requirements. Qatar has expressed frustration with the directive, warning that it may affect gas supplies to Europe. Al-Kaabi also said Qatar would not commit to net-zero emissions targets under these rules.

Despite the dispute, the minister is confident about the future of global gas demand. He highlighted the growing energy needs from emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. He projected that global liquefied natural gas (LNG) demand could reach 600–700 million tonnes per year by 2035.

QatarEnergy is expanding its production to meet this demand. The North Field expansion project is expected to produce 126 million metric tons of LNG annually by 2027. This would increase QatarEnergy’s output by 85% from its current 77 million metric tons per year. Al-Kaabi also said the first LNG train from the Golden Pass joint venture with ExxonMobil in Texas is expected to begin operations in early 2026.

On oil prices, the minister said that prices between $70 and $80 per barrel are ideal, as they provide enough revenue for companies to invest in future energy projects. Prices above $90 per barrel, he added, could be too high and destabilize the market.

Al-Kaabi also raised concerns about the Gulf real estate market, warning that rapid construction could be creating a real estate bubble in the region.

The comments reflect Qatar’s careful balancing act. While it seeks to maintain strong business ties with Europe, it is also safeguarding its energy interests and future production plans. The resolution of corporate concerns over the CSDDD will be closely watched, as it could shape global LNG trade and the Gulf region’s energy strategy in the coming years.