Indonesia cuts gas exports to Singapore

Indonesia has started cutting natural gas exports to Singapore from Oct. 24, 2026, as part of a shift to prioritise domestic demand. The reduction amounts to 31 billion British thermal units per day (BBTUD) and applies to gas volumes supplied through pipelines that directly connect Indonesian fields to Singapore.

The cuts are structured across key producing regions. Exports from Natuna regency are reduced by 15 BBTUD, while a further 16 BBTUD is being cut from pipelines in Sumatra. The Sumatra reduction originates from the Jambi Merang gas field, a source specifically identified by Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas regulator.

Officials have stated that only Singapore is affected by the current round of cuts because the export pipelines involved are directly linked to the city-state. Other neighbouring markets are not impacted by this specific adjustment in flows, as the rerouting targets the infrastructure that feeds Singapore alone.

The move immediately tightens Singapore’s imported gas supply, as the 31 BBTUD reduction comes into effect from the date announced. The change reflects Indonesia’s decision to retain more of its natural gas for internal consumption rather than for cross-border sales through these existing pipeline connections.

The export cuts are aligned with the Indonesian government’s stated focus on strengthening national energy security. Officials have emphasised the need to safeguard the country’s natural resources and to prioritise domestic gas consumption in light of broader geopolitical uncertainties.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has said the government is considering not extending gas export arrangements with neighbouring countries. He has framed this stance as necessary for Indonesia to meet domestic needs and ensure it can "survive" by securing adequate internal energy supplies.

Recent statements from Indonesian authorities also link future export policy to the quality of relations with importing countries. Bahlil has warned that Indonesia could review or halt energy exports to countries that do not show what he described as mutual respect.

These signals suggest that Indonesia’s gas export strategy is being recalibrated on two main axes: internal energy requirements and the nature of its diplomatic and commercial ties. For Singapore, the immediate and quantifiable outcome is a 31 BBTUD reduction in pipeline gas inflows beginning Oct. 24, while Indonesia channels more of its production to its own market.