US LNG exports outpace Qatar in landmark year for natural gas

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): The United States set a new benchmark in global energy markets in 2025, exporting a record 111 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas. The milestone makes the US the first country to surpass the 100-million-ton threshold in a single year, reaffirming its position as the world’s largest LNG supplier.

The total places the US roughly 20 million tons ahead of Qatar and represents a nearly 23 million ton increase over 2024 figures. The growth was driven by new export capacity and sustained high utilization across major terminals throughout the year. LNG now represents one of the fastest-growing sectors of US energy exports, with demand rising across global markets seeking supply security and diversification.

Infrastructure expansion and utilization gains

Much of the surge in volume came from recently completed infrastructure projects. Plaquemines LNG, developed by Venture Global, began exports in late 2024 and shipped 16.4 million tons in 2025 alone. The facility’s rapid scale-up helped close a critical supply gap as global LNG demand intensified.

Other export terminals, including those operated by Cheniere Energy, ran at consistently high utilization rates, with December 2025 setting a monthly record of 11.5 million tons shipped. High throughput levels allowed the US to respond quickly to market demand, particularly in Europe, where energy security remains a priority.

New capacity additions are expected to continue in 2026, led by the first train at Golden Pass LNG, a joint venture between ExxonMobil and QatarEnergy. Smaller projects already online are also ramping up output, suggesting that 2026 could again challenge previous export records.

Global markets and shifting demand

Europe remained the largest buyer of US LNG throughout 2025, continuing to replace Russian pipeline gas and stabilize winter energy supply. In December alone, European countries imported around 9 million tons of American LNG, more than any other region.

Turkey significantly increased its purchases in the final months of the year, buying more US LNG in December than all of Asia combined. Asia imported just 1.23 million tons during the month. Egypt also emerged as a notable buyer due to domestic shortages, adding further geographic diversity to the US export profile.

This global reach is a reflection of US LNG’s flexible pricing and commercial structures. Free-on-board contracts, spot sales, and short-term agreements have made US cargoes attractive to buyers seeking to manage volatility and respond to short-term energy needs.

Supply strength and strategic positioning

The rise of the US as a top LNG exporter has been underpinned by its vast domestic natural gas reserves, sourced primarily from shale plays. This supply advantage allows exporters to offer competitive pricing and rapid delivery. The country’s Gulf Coast infrastructure is also well-positioned to serve both Atlantic and Pacific markets efficiently.

In less than a decade, the US has transformed from a net LNG importer to a dominant exporter. Its ability to quickly approve and build new capacity, combined with a commercially nimble approach to contract terms, has shifted global LNG dynamics in its favor.

Energy security remains a central driver for importers, particularly in Europe. The geopolitical reshuffling of global gas flows following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine accelerated the move toward LNG as a substitute. US exporters have capitalized on this trend, providing flexible supply at scale.

Outlook for 2026 and beyond

Looking ahead, the US LNG sector is expected to expand even further. Full output at Plaquemines LNG is anticipated in 2026, and the Golden Pass facility is preparing to begin production. Together with other projects in the pipeline, these additions could push annual exports well beyond current records.

Analysts expect global LNG demand to remain strong, driven by energy diversification, emerging market growth, and the need for reliable power generation as coal plants retire. The US remains well positioned to supply this demand, thanks to its scale, contract flexibility, and infrastructure momentum.

As the global LNG market evolves, the role of the United States is becoming increasingly strategic. The record 111 million tons exported in 2025 not only confirms the strength of US natural gas supply but also marks a new era in global energy trade, one where flexibility, reliability, and infrastructure speed are reshaping the competitive landscape.

 Courtesy: www.energy-oil-gas.com