US LNG shipments to Asia rise 175pc during Middle East conflict

US exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Asia rose sharply in April as disruptions from the Middle East conflict reduced regional supply, according to preliminary ship-tracking data from financial firm LSEG.

The data shows that nearly one-quarter of all US LNG exports were directed to Asia in April, highlighting Washington’s growing role as a flexible supplier amid global supply constraints and higher energy prices.

Shipments to Asia have increased significantly since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran in late February. Volumes rose from about 9,70,000 metric tonnes in February to 1.99 million metric tonnes in March and further to 2.71 million metric tonnes in April, an increase of more than 175 per cent.

The surge comes as the ongoing conflict in Iran continues to disrupt energy flows from the Middle East, tightening global gas markets.

Despite the increase in Asian demand, total US LNG exports fell slightly in April to 10.97 million metric tonnes, down from a record 11.7 million metric tonnes in March. The decline was attributed mainly to fewer shipping days and delays in cargo loading.

Gas flows to US export terminals remained strong, reaching a record 18.8 billion cubic feet per day during April, reflecting continued high production levels.

Europe remained the largest destination for US LNG, receiving about 6.14 million metric tonnes, or roughly 56 per cent of total exports. Egypt imported around 7,10,000 metric tonnes, while Latin America received about 5 lakh metric tonnes.

Notably, South Africa received a rare LNG shipment from the United States during the month. At the same time, several LNG vessels departing US ports were still awaiting buyers, including some positioned near the Suez Canal.

The data also shows the first LNG shipment from the Golden Pass terminal, a joint venture between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil, was sent to Belgium in April, marking a new addition to US export capacity.

Analysts say the trend reflects how US LNG is increasingly filling supply gaps created by geopolitical tensions, particularly as Middle Eastern exports face disruptions.