Liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from the United States fell to 8.9 million metric tons in May, down from a record 9.3 million tons in April, due primarily to scheduled maintenance at key production facilities.
According to data from LSEG reported, Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass plant—the nation’s largest LNG exporter—operated at its lowest capacity in two years during the month as maintenance activities limited output.
Europe continued to dominate U.S. LNG demand, receiving 6.05 million tons in May, which accounted for 68% of total exports. Asian markets imported a smaller share, with 1.88 million tons, or 21% of the monthly total.
Despite the recent dip, the International Group of Liquefied Natural Gas Importers recently cautioned that LNG demand outlook remains uncertain. The group’s president highlighted challenges including volatile prices, geopolitical tensions, and uneven economic recovery in Asia, complicating short- and medium-term demand forecasts—even as long-term fundamentals appear solid.
In contrast, U.S. LNG producers remain optimistic, ramping up efforts to boost capacity later this year. Cheniere Energy plans to commission four of seven new liquefaction trains at its Corpus Christi facility. Venture Global is nearing completion of its Plaquemines plant, and Golden Pass LNG is preparing to begin production.
Looking ahead, expansion continues with Sempra Energy recently securing federal approval to export 13.5 million tons annually from its under-construction Port Arthur LNG Phase 2 facility in Texas. This authorization contributes to the current administration’s total LNG export permits, which now support a daily average of 11.45 billion cubic feet of natural gas.
Overall, while May’s export slowdown reflects temporary maintenance impacts, U.S. LNG production and export capacity is poised for significant growth in the near future.
