What were the key regional trends in global LNG trade in 2025, according to the IGU report?

According to the IGU report, global LNG trade rose 6.3% to 436.98 million metric tons in 2025 — the fastest growth since 2022. Europe recorded the largest import increase, up 26.1 million tons to 126.2 million tons, driven by inventory replenishment and replacement of lower Russian gas flows. Asia Pacific remained the largest importing region at 168.7 million tons, but imports declined by 9.2 million tons overall, mainly due to lower demand in China and India; China — the world’s largest importer — saw imports fall 8.9 million tons year-on-year to 69.77 million tons, attributed to stronger domestic supply and higher pipeline imports from Russia, while Japan (67.37 million tons) and South Korea (48.67 million tons, +1.7 million tons) maintained strong import levels. The U.S. was the top exporter at 110.74 million tons, followed by Qatar (81.51 million tons) and Australia (80.32 million tons).

How does the IGU link Middle East conflict to risks for global LNG markets in 2026?

The IGU warns that the conflict in the Gulf has damaged LNG infrastructure, clouded the outlook for the region’s expansion projects, and exposed Asian buyers to flow uncertainty and higher prices — factors that could lead to a contraction in global LNG trade in 2026. It further notes that prolonged elevated LNG prices may weigh on demand growth in emerging Asian economies, especially in South and Southeast Asia, where some countries are increasingly reliant on LNG spot purchases due to lower domestic production.

Global LNG Trade Hits Record in 2025, Middle East Conflict Clouds Outlook, IGU Says

Jul 6, 2026

Global LNG trade hit a record 436.98 million tons in 2025, driven by U.S. exports and European demand. However, the IGU warns Middle East conflicts may disrupt infrastructure and raise prices in 2026.

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Global LNG Trade Hits Record in 2025, Middle East Conflict Clouds Outlook, IGU Says

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Global LNG Trade Hits Record in 2025, Middle East Conflict Clouds Outlook, IGU Says

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