1559 GMT - Qatar's LNG exports are likely to remain constrained in the near term, but a sustained recovery in Hormuz transits could trigger a sharp increase in flows next year as the expansion of the North Field offsets lasting damage to existing capacity, Capital Economics' Jason Tuvey says. Current indicators suggest exports remain very low, although the data may understate flows as some tankers appear to be switching off their transponders. A sustained recovery in transits is expected from early next year, according to the economist. Damage to the Ras Laffan facility has knocked out around 17% of Qatar's LNG capacity for three to five years. However, the first train of the North Field East project is reportedly ready to start, Tuvey says, raising capacity by 43%. The second and third phases, due by 2030, are expected to lift capacity by a further 30%.