Energy security, affordability, diversification and investment have emerged as key themes at Gastech 2026, taking place in Bangkok from 14–17 September.

The international forum brings together around 50,000 energy professionals and 1,000 exhibiting companies, with representatives from more than 150 countries discussing the outlook for natural gas and LNG, infrastructure development, investment, artificial intelligence and low-carbon technologies.

According to Valerie Ducrot, Executive Director of the Global Gas Centre, the global energy industry increasingly needs to balance energy security and affordability with economic growth and climate objectives. Discussions in Bangkok are also highlighting the importance of a pragmatic approach to the energy transition, international cooperation and stable investment frameworks.

Joseph Murphy of Petroleum Economist notes that recent developments in global gas markets have increased the importance of diversification. For Asian consumers, this can involve access to different suppliers, supply routes and contractual mechanisms, as well as an optimal combination of LNG and pipeline gas.

Despite temporary declines in LNG consumption caused by high prices in some Asian markets, long-term energy demand continues to be supported by industrialisation, rising electricity consumption, expanding digital infrastructure and the growth of data centres.

These trends are particularly relevant to Turkmenistan. The fourth stage of the Galkynysh gas field development envisages new production and gas treatment capacity of around 10 billion cubic metres per year. The TAPI gas pipeline, with a design capacity of 33 billion cubic metres per year, is intended to create an additional gas corridor linking Central and South Asia.

Renowned international energy journalist John Defterios, whose Bangkok Gastech 2026 video message formed part of the global energy dialogue, will travel to Ashgabat as a lead international moderator of OGT 2026.

The 31st International Conference and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – OGT 2026” will take place in Ashgabat on 21–23 October. Its agenda will cover natural gas development, Galkynysh, TAPI and regional connectivity, gas monetisation and petrochemicals, Caspian investment opportunities, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, methane emissions reduction and international cooperation.

Many of the issues currently being discussed by the international energy community in Bangkok will therefore continue in Ashgabat next month.