Italy seeks new gas supplies as Meloni visits Algeria amid Qatar disruptions

Monday 23 March 2026 - 14:00

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to visit Algeria this week as Italy moves to secure alternative gas supplies following disruptions in deliveries from Qatar. The supply issues are linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have affected energy infrastructure and export capacity.

Algeria has emerged as a key partner for Italy in recent years, especially after Rome reduced its reliance on Russian gas following the 2022 Ukraine conflict. Currently, Algeria provides around 30% of Italy’s natural gas consumption, making it one of the country’s primary energy suppliers.

Italian authorities are also exploring additional sources, including the United States and Azerbaijan, as part of a broader strategy to ensure energy security. The urgency has increased after Qatar, previously responsible for about 10% of Italy’s gas imports, indicated that it may be unable to meet some of its contractual obligations in the short term.

Meloni’s visit highlights Italy’s ongoing efforts to diversify its energy partnerships and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical shocks. As global energy markets remain volatile, securing stable supply channels has become a top priority for European governments.