China expects modest recovery in LNG imports as global supply increases
Analysts expect China to increase LNG imports this year as falling global prices stimulate demand. Economic headwinds will likely keep levels below 2024 peaks.
Insights:
Analysts are forecasting that liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports into China 
CN will increase by 3% to 10% in 2026. This projected rise, which would bring import volumes to approximately 70.5 to 75.5 million metric tons, comes as a global supply upswing is expected to lower spot prices and as domestic consumption for power generation and transport grows. This market-driven shift follows a rare 10% decline in the country’s LNG imports recorded in 2024.
CN will increase by 3% to 10% in 2026. This projected rise, which would bring import volumes to approximately 70.5 to 75.5 million metric tons, comes as a global supply upswing is expected to lower spot prices and as domestic consumption for power generation and transport grows. This market-driven shift follows a rare 10% decline in the country’s LNG imports recorded in 2024.
