Sentinel Midstream LLC announced on May 5, 2026, the start of work on its Texas GulfLink deepwater port, describing it as a significant milestone enabled by funding received pursuant to the United States-Japan Trade Agreement.
The project advances in coordination with the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Government of Japan and reflects the shared commitment to strengthening global energy security and expanding U.S. export infrastructure. Sentinel will lead the development of Texas GulfLink, overseeing construction, commercial operations, and long-term management of the terminal.
Funding provided under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement pursuant to Executive Order 14345 signed on September 4, 2025, underscores continued international confidence in U.S. energy infrastructure and supports the expansion of American crude oil exports to global markets.
Upon this commencement, Texas GulfLink will immediately begin construction of its deepwater crude oil export terminal, unlocking a new level of market access for U.S. producers, creating high-quality American jobs, and reinforcing the United States' role as a reliable global energy supplier.
"Texas GulfLink is about more than infrastructure, it is about unlocking the full potential of American energy, said Jeff Ballard, CEO of Sentinel Midstream. "This project creates a direct path from one of the most liquid crude hubs in the world to global markets, strengthening our allies, improving trade dynamics, and reinforcing the United States as the supplier of choice in an increasingly uncertain energy landscape. We are proud to be a trusted partner of both the U.S. and Japan governments and help lead the next chapter of American oil exports."
Texas GulfLink's deepwater crude oil export terminal will be located approximately 30 mi. off the coast west of Freeport, Texas. Once complete, it will have the capability to fully load very large crude carriers (VLCCs) offshore, eliminating the need for costly and inefficient lightering operations. This direct-loading capability enhances global competitiveness while significantly reducing emissions associated with traditional export methods.
By enabling efficient, large-scale exports, the terminal will serve as a critical conduit connecting global markets to reliable, North American-produced crude oil. It is expected to expand market access across Asia and Europe, strengthen trade relationships with key allies, and reinforce the role of the United States as a stable, long-term energy supplier.
Once operational, Texas GulfLink is anticipated to support billions of dollars in annual export value, improve the U.S. trade balance, and drive sustained economic growth across the Gulf Coast and beyond. ♣
