The European Union is discussing enhanced verification measures for gas imports to ensure the fuel's country of origin is properly documented, according to a recent draft proposal. This move aligns with the EU’s broader initiative to phase out Russian oil and gas imports by January 1, 2028, following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Verifying gas origins is complex, especially since gas shipments can be blended during transit. The latest draft, circulated ahead of a diplomatic meeting in Brussels, suggests that importers will need to provide detailed proof to national authorities confirming that their gas does not come from Russia.

The document states, "For imports of natural gas produced in other countries than Russia, the authorising authorities... shall be provided with evidence to establish the country of production of the natural gas." Notably, this requirement would not apply to gas from countries that have also banned or sanctioned Russian gas.

The proposed restrictions specify a phased approach: new contracts involving Russian gas will be banned from January 2026; short-term contracts will end by June 17, 2026; and long-term contracts will be terminated by January 2028.

Additionally, importers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments containing mixed origins must document the proportion of Russian gas within these cargos.

The draft was prepared by Denmark, which currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency. Denmark has not commented on the proposal. EU member states are expected to finalize a consensus on the position by mid-October, after which negotiations with the European Parliament will proceed to enact the legislation.

Last year, Russia supplied approximately 19% of Europe’s gas, mainly through the TurkStream pipeline and LNG shipments. This share is projected to decline to 13% by 2025, a substantial drop from the pre-2022 level of around 45%.