In 2023, the United States solidified its position as the world's leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), surpassing all other countries with an average export rate of 11.9 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d).
According to EIA, this marked a 12% increase from the previous year, highlighting the country's growing role in the global LNG market. Other major players included Australia and Qatar, with Russia and Malaysia also being significant contributors.
A key driver for the rise in U.S. LNG exports was the resurgence of the Freeport LNG facility, coupled with high demand from Europe due to elevated natural gas prices.
Notably, U.S. LNG export facilities operated beyond their nameplate capacity on average, demonstrating the high demand for American LNG.
Europe was the primary recipient of the U.S. LNG, making up 66% of the exports, driven by the need to replace natural gas supplies previously piped from Russia.
Asian markets, led by Japan and South Korea, and Latin American regions also imported U.S. LNG, although Brazil's imports have declined due to its increased reliance on hydropower.
Significant importers of U.S. LNG included the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom, which together accounted for 35% of U.S. LNG exports.
The expansion of LNG import capabilities in Europe, particularly through new terminals, and the initiation of LNG imports by countries like the Philippines and Vietnam, highlighted the dynamic shifts in global LNG trade patterns and the pivotal role of U.S. exports in meeting global energy needs.
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