Record LNG Exports Solidify U.S. Position as Top Global Supplier
Nathaniel Vicens MBA, LCB
Experienced Licensed Customs Broker & Supply Chain Manager | Expert in International Trade & Compliance | Fluent in English & Spanish
U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports reached near-record levels in December 2024, hitting 8.5 million metric tonnes (MT), driven by the startup of two new plants: Cheniere Energy’s Corpus Christi Stage 3 expansion in Texas and Venture Global LNG’s Plaquemines plant in Louisiana. These facilities are expected to add 30 MTPA to U.S. output over time, positioning the nation to maintain its status as the world's largest LNG exporter.
Total U.S. LNG exports for 2024 rose 4.5% year-over-year to 88.3 MT, up from 84.5 MT in 2023, according to preliminary LSEG data. Europe remained the dominant destination for U.S. LNG, accounting for 69% of December shipments, while Asia received 24%, reflecting seasonal demand as winter began.
The global LNG market is expected to tighten in 2025 due to reduced Russian gas flows to Europe and diminished supply buffers, increasing the importance of U.S. production. Industry experts emphasize that the new capacity coming online will be critical in moderating global LNG price volatility.
U.S. producers are preparing for a surge in feedgas demand, but additional pressure from AI and data center-related demand could further challenge the market.
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