JAKARTA, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia, one of the world's largest suppliers of liquefied natural gas (LNG), plans to delay LNG exports to meet rising domestic demand, said Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia.
Bahlil said that the government would prioritize using domestically produced LNG to address domestic energy needs, including efforts to accelerate the development of downstream sectors.
He emphasized that this measure aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's initiative to reduce Indonesia's reliance on energy imports and promote energy self-sufficiency.
"All gas concessions in Indonesia will be prioritized to meet domestic demand. If domestic needs are not fulfilled, we will not allow gas exports," said Bahlil.
"Once our domestic needs are met, then we will allow gas exports," he added.
Bahlil acknowledged that this policy might spark reactions from nations that have long been consumers of Indonesia's gas. However, he noted that the move is a strategic effort to ensure the sustainability of Indonesia's gas supply. ■
