Mauritania records an unprecedented increase in its liquefied natural gas exports.

Mauritania recorded an unprecedented increase in its exports of liquefied natural gas during the first quarter of 2026, reaching 15,741 TP3T on an annual basis, which is about 16 times compared to the same period last year, indicating its rise as a new player in the global energy market.

According to a report issued by the Energy Research Unit, Mauritania's exports reached about 703,000 tons during the period from January to the end of March 2026, compared to only 42,000 tons in the first quarter of 2025, the year that witnessed the beginning of the country's exports of liquefied gas.

Mauritania's entry into the global gas market

This rapid growth reflects Mauritania's strong entry into the global gas market, supported by new energy projects, which strengthens its position as a promising energy supplier.

On a quarterly basis, exports recorded growth of more than 140,000 tons compared to the level of the last quarter of last year, which amounted to 560,000 tons.

The surge is based on the Tortue Ahmeyim oil field project, a joint venture with Senegal, reaching its maximum capacity, with expectations of exports exceeding 3 million tons in 2026, representing a growth rate of 100%, according to press reports.

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim field project includes a floating liquefaction unit with a capacity of 2.3 million tons per year, with operational capabilities that allow access to about 3 million tons in the first phase, while it is expected to rise to 5 million tons in the second phase, reaching 10 million tons per year after the completion of all phases.

By extracting gas from a great depth of 2,850 meters below sea level, the project succeeds in officially establishing Mauritania as a reliable and sustainable supplier on the global energy map.

Geography gives Nouakchott a logistical advantage thanks to its location on the Atlantic and its proximity to Mediterranean ports, making it a more stable and secure option in light of the current geopolitical tensions that threaten traditional shipping lanes.

Mauritania's gas export figures

Mauritania's exports of liquefied natural gas during the first quarter of 2026 recorded the peak of their export performance since entering the market last year, achieving the highest monthly figures in their history.

The country began the year with exports of 218,000 tons in January, consistently exceeding the 200,000-ton mark per month. In February, the upward momentum continued, with exports reaching 232,000 tons, representing a year-on-year increase of 10,061 TP3T compared to approximately 21,000 tons in February.

Exports saw remarkable progress in March, reaching 253,000 tons, the highest level ever achieved by Mauritania, increasing by 10,471 TP3T compared to about 22,000 tons in the same month of 2025.

European countries topped the list of countries importing liquefied natural gas from Mauritania during the first quarter of 2026, along with China and other Asian and African countries.