Introduction
The U.S. has achieved a significant victory in its efforts to curb Russia’s LNG sector expansion. The heavy lift vessel Wei Xiao Tian Shi returned to port with its original cargo still on board, marking an unsuccessful attempt to deliver crucial equipment to Russia’s sanctioned Arctic LNG 2 plant. This event underscores the impact of U.S. sanctions on the maritime industry and the LNG sector.
The Journey of Wei Xiao Tian Shi
The vessel, carrying two modules manufactured by Chinese company Wison New Energies for Novatek’s Arctic LNG 2 project, departed from a Chinese yard ten months ago. AIS data and satellite images confirm the vessel’s return to Dongzao Gang port, east of Nantong, on January 19, where it unloaded its cargo.
Impact on Arctic LNG 2 Project
The two modules, each weighing over 12,000 tons, were intended for the third train of the Arctic LNG 2 project. The equipment will be temporarily stored at Jiangsu Haili Wind Power Equipment Technology Co., Ltd. The future of these modules, along with four others remaining at Wison’s Zhoushan yard, remains uncertain.
Timeline of Events
- March 2024: Wei Xiao Tian Shi loads modules at Wison’s Zhoushan yard.
- July 2024: Vessel makes a U-turn near Denmark’s Faroe Islands and returns to China.
- October 2024: Wison continues delivery of modules for the second train of Arctic LNG 2.
- January 2025: U.S. sanctions Wison’s Zhoushan yard.
Wison’s Challenges
Wison announced its intention to sell its Zhoushan division in June 2024 but has been unable to find a buyer. The company’s new Qidong yard, intended to replace the Zhoushan yard, is located near the offloading point at Dongzao Gang port.
Conclusion
The return of Wei Xiao Tian Shi to China highlights the effectiveness of U.S. sanctions in disrupting Russia’s LNG sector expansion. The maritime industry continues to navigate the complexities of geopolitical tensions and their impact on global trade.
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