Global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade reached a record 436.98 million tonnes in 2025, rising 6.3 percent and marking the fastest growth since 2022, according to the International Gas Union (IGU).

The increase was driven by strong US exports and higher European imports, which offset weaker demand across parts of Asia.

Europe recorded the largest rise in imports, adding 26.1 million tonnes to reach 126.2 million tonnes as countries rebuilt stocks and reduced reliance on Russian pipeline gas.

Asia Pacific remained the largest LNG importing region at 168.7 million tonnes, despite a 9.2 million tonne decline in purchases, mainly due to lower demand from China and India.

China stayed the world’s biggest LNG buyer at 69.77 million tonnes, but imports dropped by 8.9 million tonnes as domestic supply increased and Russian pipeline gas flows expanded.

Japan ranked second with 67.37 million tonnes, while South Korea’s imports climbed 1.7 million tonnes to 48.67 million tonnes.

 The IGU warned that prolonged high prices could limit LNG demand growth in emerging Asian markets.

The report also highlighted risks from the Middle East conflict, which could disrupt supply and investment.

“The Gulf conflict has damaged LNG infrastructure, clouded the outlook for expansion projects in the region, and left Asian buyers facing uncertainty over flows and higher prices,” said Andrea Steiger, International Gas Union President.

The US remained the world’s largest LNG exporter, shipping 110.74 million tonnes, followed by Qatar at 81.51 million tonnes and Australia at 80.32 million tonnes.

The IGU represents more than 130 countries, covering over 90 per cent of the global gas market. -OGN/TradeArabia News Service