U.S. LNG exports rose 23% in the first half of 2026 because of higher capacity

In the first half of 2026, U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports increased by 23% compared to the same period in 2025, averaging 17.4 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d). This growth was driven by higher capacity additions from startup production at new terminals and expansions at existing terminals, marking the fastest rate of increase since U.S. large-scale exports began in 2016.

Plaquemines LNG was exporting at full capacity, while Corpus Christi Stage 3 was exporting from six out of seven liquefaction trains, with these terminals set to boost nominal U.S. export capacity by a combined 4.0 Bcf/d. In April 2026, Golden Pass LNG began exporting, adding another 0.7 Bcf/d of nominal export capacity. The completion of Golden Pass LNG Train 2 in late 2026 is also expected to contribute to increased exports.

Global LNG prices remained high throughout the first half of 2026, incentivizing U.S. exports near maximum output levels. Disruptions to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz in March cut off 20% of global LNG supplies, primarily from Qatar, causing global LNG prices to soar. Asian buyers, who import about 80% of Qatari LNG supplies, had to compete for limited spot cargoes, leading to a doubling of U.S. LNG shipments to Asia in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year.

Exports to Europe and Asia both increased, while shipments to Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East and North Africa also rose.