Global leading law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has advised China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) on the signing of a long-term liquefied natural gas sale and purchase agreement (LNG SPA) with Qatar Petroleum.
Under the agreement, the national petroleum company of Qatar will deliver 2 million tons of LNG to China each year for 10 years starting from 2022. This is the first long-term LNG supply agreement between Sinopec and Qatar Petroleum.
“We are delighted to have advised Sinopec on this strategic move to expand its LNG business,” said Monica Sun, head of the firm’s China energy practice. “Combining our recognised strength in the energy sector with our expertise in the LNG and gas businesses helped us to deliver high-quality advice on this transaction efficiently and effectively.”
“China has committed to peaking carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060, which calls for sustainable development of energy companies,” said Monica. “Our longstanding expertise helps clients to deliver on their commitments to sustainability and to meeting the growing needs of the local market.”
As a firm, Herbert Smith Freehills is committing to net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, and adopting science-based targets to reduce the carbon emissions it produces as a business.
Partner Monica Sun led the Beijing team advising Sinopec on the transaction, supported by senior associate James Zhang and paralegal Yilin Pei. Partner Calvin Ho provided specialist support on shipping aspects of the transaction.