Global liquefied natural gas trade hit a record 436.98 million tons over the past year, a 6.3% rise, but the International Gas Union warns the Middle East conflict could push the market into contraction in 2026. Europe posted the largest jump in imports, while the United States held its place as the world’s top exporter.
The International Gas Union warned that the conflict in the Middle East threatens global liquefied natural gas trade and could drive a contraction in 2026. IGU President Andrea Stegher said the war has damaged LNG infrastructure and created uncertainty over flows and prices.
The warning sits against a backdrop of record volumes. Global LNG trade rose 6.3% over the past year to reach 436.98 million tons, according to the IGU report. Europe recorded the largest increase in imports.
Asia Pacific remained the largest importing region, with China as the main importer, even though its imports fell. The United States stayed the global leader in LNG exports, followed by Qatar and Australia.
Those flows now hang on a market the IGU describes as exposed. The union, which counts more than 130 members and represents over 90% of the global gas market, framed 2026 as the year the record run could stall if the conflict keeps damaging natural gas infrastructure.
Source: Informat.ro
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