Qatargas has opened a new market for Qatari liquified natural gas (LNG) as Dubai Supply Authority (DUSUP) completed the commissioning phase of its new LNG terminal in Jebel Ali, a port town located 35 kilometres southwest of the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, the Authority said in a statement released by Beltone Financial.

The commissioning was completed by the delivery of the first cargo via a Q-Flex vessel, which is a type of ship, specifically a membrane type liquefied natural gas carrier, with LNG produced by Qatargas and sold to Shell.

The resultant natural gas will be injected into DUSUPs distribution system to supply its local customers.

"Qatar’s growth rates will reach 15% in 2010 and 16% in 2011, on the back of increased hydrocarbon exports", said Beltone Financial.

Qatar’s production lies at around 50% of total capacity, and is looking to widen its export base through exporting to emerging markets.