Mexico Eyes Unconventional Gas to Boost Energy Sovereignty Amid Global Tensions

Mexico is looking to tap unconventional natural gas deposits to boost energy sovereignty, President Claudia Sheinbaum has said, as global energy markets reel from the shock triggered by the US-Israeli war on Iran.

The US’ southern neighbor is its biggest importer of natural gas, with the supplies covering roughly three-quarters of Mexican demand, while domestic output from conventional fields has declined and no longer meets the country’s needs.

“If we continue like this, we’re going to import more and more natural gas,” Sheinbaum said on Wednesday. “The other options are what’s called shale gas, unconventional gas.”

Unconventional deposits refers to gas trapped in dense rock formations such as shale, which do not allow the fuel to flow freely and require more complex extraction techniques, including hydraulic fracturing or fracking. Development has so far been limited due to environmental concerns, high water usage, regulatory uncertainty, and political opposition.

“What’s the problem with importing?” Sheinbaum asked rhetorically. “Just look at how lots of countries in the world are suffering because of what happened in Iran.”

Fuel and energy prices have surged since the outbreak of the Iran war in late February, with disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one fifth of global oil flows, keeping markets on edge. Oil prices soared to above $100 per barrel amid persistent uncertainty over supply routes and fragile ceasefire signals.

Sheinbaum’s remarks come amid broader tensions between Mexico City and Washington.

In January, US President Donald Trump said he could order strikes against drug cartels on Mexican territory following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US commandos over alleged narcotics trafficking.

Trump has also claimed that cartels effectively control Mexico and accused the country of “flooding” the US with drugs and illegal migrants.

Mexico has cooperated on anti-drug efforts but rejects any foreign military presence, with Sheinbaum warning any such action would violate national sovereignty.

Trump also threatened 30% tariffs on Mexican imports last year, though they were later lowered through negotiations.