Venture Global, a leading U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) producer, is in discussions with three major Korean shipbuilders for a potential order of up to 12 LNG carriers, according to industry insiders. Representatives from Venture Global recently visited the shipyards of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries , Hanwha Ocean, and Samsung Heavy Industries to explore these deals, a move that signals the company's interest in leveraging Korea's expertise in LNG carrier construction. Insiders indicate that a contract may be finalized by June's end, initially covering four LNG carriers with an option for an additional eight. These carriers are expected to have a capacity between 174,000 and 180,000 cubic meters each, with the entire deal potentially reaching a value of 4.3 trillion won ($3.01 billion). The Trump administration's approvals of multiple LNG export projects by companies such as Venture Global, Commonwealth, and Delfin have accelerated the demand for LNG carriers. This development is seen as a boon for Korean shipbuilders who have a stronghold in the global LNG market. With rising global demand, it's projected that up to 126 LNG carriers will be needed by 2029, a market potentially worth over 40 trillion won. Korean shipbuilders already construct 90 percent of the world's LNG carriers and secured 70 percent of new orders globally last year, reflecting their advanced technology in shipbuilding. The geopolitical climate, marked by U.S.-China tensions, has further positioned Korean shipbuilders advantageously. The U.S. has blacklisted Chinese shipyards, leading international clients to seek alternatives like Korean companies. This shift, paired with new potential tariffs on Chinese-built ships, underscores the Korean shipbuilding industry's strategic importance in the global arena.