The Russian Ministry of Energy is considering the withdrawal of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the export monopoly of Gazprom, the Energy Minister Alexander Novak told reporters during the forum 'Russian Gas 2012'. This was reported by the RIA news agency with reference to the Prime agency.
"There is a proposal from Novatek, which is under consideration," Novak said, when asked about the possibility of providing independent producers with the right to independently supply LNG for export.
The minister stressed that the abolition of the Gazprom monopoly to export natural gas is not being considered.
Currently according to Russian legislation, Gazprom is the exclusive exporter of gas. Independent producers are obliged to conclude contracts for export with the gas holding companies.
"There is a law and we must act within that law on the export of gas, according to which Gazprom is the sole exporter of gas," Novak said.
"I think these options are possible in the field of LNG, but the options have to be developed," he said.
"We have a proposal from Novatek on amendments to the legislation which is being considered," the minister said, adding that only after a full analysis the proposal will be assessed.
Energy Ministry plans to develop appropriate proposals at the request of Novatek until the New Year.