The operator of Damietta liquefaction plant, the Union Fenosa Gas (UFG), will start the first test cargo on February 14, S&P Global Platts Analytics reported.

The test cargo will enhance Egypt’s ability to export gas to European markets as it will be the first step towards adding Damietta’s exports to the Shell-operated Idku plant.

According to the S&P data, seven cargoes have been shipped from the 7.2 million tons per year Idku plant since January, compared to six cargoes in Q1 2020.

It is worth noting that ENI, the Italian giant, has taken over the plant’s operation from its UFG partner Naturgy under the terms of an agreement between them and the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC). Eni owns 50% stake of the plant, the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) holds 40%, and EGPC holds the remaining 10%.