The Vertical Corridor is moving beyond a strategic vision and taking shape as a potential commercial energy platform for Southeast Europe. Atlantic SEE LNG Trade, a joint venture between AKTOR and DEPA, has outlined a regional LNG strategy based on US gas supply, Balkan market distribution and improved northbound infrastructure connections. Its 20-year agreement with Venture Global, valued at approximately $9 billion, includes the supply of 1.5 bcm of gas annually from 2030, with 1 bcm allocated for Albania and 500 million cubic metres for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
These agreements mark a shift in how regional gas diversification is being approached. For years, Balkan energy security discussions focused mainly on reducing dependence on Russian gas. The latest developments introduce a more commercial framework built around long-term supply contracts, take-or-pay commitments, capacity allocation, financing support and infrastructure economics. This moves the Vertical Corridor closer to becoming a functioning energy trade route rather than remaining only a geopolitical objective.
The project further strengthens Greece’s position as a regional energy hub. LNG imported through Greek terminals could flow toward Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Albania, Bosnia and potentially Central European markets through interconnected infrastructure. As more capacity is secured through long-term agreements, the corridor becomes increasingly attractive for investors because energy infrastructure is ultimately developed around confirmed commercial demand rather than political commitments alone.
For countries across Southeast Europe, the main value of LNG lies in energy flexibility and security of supply. While LNG may not always compete with pipeline gas on price, it provides strategic protection during supply disruptions, geopolitical uncertainty and periods of high winter demand. The future success of the Vertical Corridor will depend on competitive tariffs, reliable interconnections, coordinated storage solutions and market willingness to invest in long-term security alongside short-term cost efficiency.
