Venture Global LNG Inc. drew sharp criticism from Shell plc’s CEO on Thursday, who said the “actions of one player could potentially start to undermine confidence” in U.S. natural gas exports. 

During the third quarter conference call, CEO Wael Sawan was asked about an ongoing contract dispute with Venture to deliver liquefied natural gas cargoes from the Calcasieu Pass, LA, terminal under long-term contracts. 

Shell has a 20-year binding contract for Venture to deliver 2 million metric tons/year (mmty) from Calcasieu Pass gas. BP plc, Edison SpA and Repsol SA also hold binding long-term contracts.

The crux of the dispute is that Calcasieu Pass is selling spot cargoes but failing to comply with long-term binding contracts. 

The Louisiana facility has sold more than...