Classification and Identifying the optimal contract structure for Iranian gas export projects via LNG using theELECTRE-TRI technique

To have a strong presence in the gas export market during the 2000s, Iran had designed projects to export more than 70 million tons of LNG per year. If these plans came to fruition, Iran would now be one of the largest exporters of LNG in the world. But so far, none of these projects have been put into operation, and with the existing conditions in the future, it will not be possible to use them. This delay represents a loss of access to South Pars' shared resources and millions of dollars in foreign exchange earnings. Failure to use a proper business structure as a reason for past projects' failure shows the need for structural reform.The purpose of this study, which was conducted from 2019 to 2020, is to identify the optimal structure for the country's projects. In this regard, by evaluating a wide range of criteria by experts in the oil and gas industry and using the ELECTRE-TRI technique, we classify the existing structures and introduce the optimal structure. The results show that the optimal structure will be achieved by using the IPC contract in the upstream sector and combining it with the participation of the upstream partner in the construction of the liquefaction facility. This structure, by the domestic laws and regulations and by attracting foreign investors by ensuring a long-term presence in the upstream and downstream sectors, can counteract international sanctions, increase efficiency, and speed up the implementation of projects. Provide.