Tanzania signs LNG framework agreement with Equinor and Shell

Tanzania signed a framework agreement with Norway's Equinor and Britain's Shell that will bring closer the start of construction of a $30 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal.

Energy Minister January Makamba said the signing would pave the way for a final investment decision in 2025 on the facility, Construction of which near huge offshore natural gas discoveries in deep waters off Tanzania's southern coast has been held up for years by regulatory delays.

"Today's step is very important," Makamba said in a speech during the signing ceremony at the state house in Tanzania's capital Dodoma, also attended by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and top officials from energy companies.

Jared Kuehl, Shell's vice president and board chairman in Tanzania, said at the ceremony: "We believe Tanzania has advantages because it has a strategic location and the opportunity to deliver a competitive and investable project."