Largest importers and exporters of LNG in the world

Global LNG trade hit a record high last year, according to data from the International Gas Union (IGU).

The data, reported by Reuters, showed global LNG trade rose 6.3% to 436.98 million metric tons in 2025, the fastest growth rate since 2022.

The growth was driven by strong U.S. exports and rising European imports, despite weaker Asian demand, while China maintained its position as the world's largest LNG importer.

Largest LNG importers in the world

Rank

Country

Import volume (million tons)

China

69.77

Japan

67.37

South Korea

48.67

In contrast, the United States maintained its lead as the world's largest LNG exporter, followed by Qatar and then Australia.

Largest LNG exporters in the world

Rank

Country

Export volume (million tons)

United States

110.74

Qatar

81.51

Australia

80.32

The IGU warned that conflict in the Middle East could shrink LNG trade this year, and its president, Andrea Steiger, explained that the conflict has damaged LNG infrastructure, cast doubt on expansion projects in the region, and exposed Asian buyers to risks of supply disruption and price hikes.

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