IEF Mobilises Global Momentum on Energy Market Transparency, Carbon Management and Hydrogen Markets
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – 03 December. The International Energy Forum (IEF) convened a series of high-level meetings in Riyadh last week to advance global cooperation on energy market transparency, carbon management, and hydrogen market development.
On 25 November, the IEF hosted a Global Seminar on Energy Market Transparency and Data Reporting, bringing together senior officials and experts from governments, industry, and international organisations. Discussions highlighted how fast-moving digital solutions are reshaping energy data and reinforcing the need for timely, consistent, high-quality information. Participants underscored the value of harmonised reporting and transparent benchmarks such as JODI - marking 20 years of JODI Oil and 11 years of JODI Gas - and its role in improving data quality, streamlining reporting, and strengthening the transparency essential for global energy security and sound policy planning. They also stressed the growing need for transparency across LNG, hydrogen and its derivatives, renewables, carbon management, and critical minerals.
The next day, the IEF and Japan's Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) co-hosted a High-Level Roundtable on Building Carbon Management and Hydrogen Markets. Participants examined the policy frameworks, investment signals, and cooperation needed to scale emerging carbon and hydrogen value chains. Building on the previous day's discussions, the roundtable advanced the IEF's work to strengthen market transparency, enhance energy availability, mobilise sustainable financing, and support an orderly, just, and affordable transformation of global energy systems.
The week also featured an inter-secretariat meeting of JODI partner organizations including APEC, GECF, IEA, IEF, OLADE and OPEC, which laid a strong foundation for a forward-looking roadmap to strengthen the global energy-data reporting framework, build institutional capacity, and expand JODI coverage in line with emerging challenges. The outcomes will guide future work programmes and reinforce global transparency efforts that support energy security, affordability, and sustainability.
Following the week's events, IEF Secretary General Jassim Alshirawi said:
"By collaborating with JODI organizations and others to improve data quality and availability, align reporting, and build capacity, we strengthen transparency and support better data for better decisions. Through the IEF's neutral and inclusive platform, which gives voice to all, we also act as a catalyst for cooperation in emerging areas such as carbon management and hydrogen markets. This collective effort contributes to more resilient and secure energy pathways."
