State-run gas utility GAIL (India) Limited has invited bids for the charter of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier as it seeks to strengthen its shipping arrangements for LNG imports.
According to shipping market reports, bids are due this week for a single LNG carrier that will be employed on a term charter of approximately one year. The company is reportedly seeking a vessel with a cargo capacity ranging between 173,000 cubic metres (cbm) and 181,000 cbm.
Market sources indicated that the selected vessel is expected to be delivered in the United States between mid-November 2026 and the end of January 2027, after which it will enter service under GAIL’s charter arrangement.
The tender comes amid sustained demand for LNG transportation as India continues to expand its natural gas consumption and diversify its energy supply sources. GAIL, the country’s largest gas marketing and transmission company, remains one of the leading LNG importers in India, sourcing cargoes from multiple international suppliers.
Industry observers are closely monitoring the outcome of the tender, which is expected to attract interest from major LNG shipowners amid a competitive global charter market.
The development also coincides with ongoing LNG shipping tenders from international energy companies, highlighting continued demand for modern LNG carriers in the global market.
