China’s imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) are set to conclude 2025 on a positive note, experiencing a significant rebound. According to data from Kpler, the country’s LNG imports are projected to reach 7.17 million tons in December, marking a notable increase following a prolonged period of decline. This surge comes after a strong showing in November, where the total LNG imports exceeded expectations, recording an annual increase of 13.6% to 6.94 million tons, despite predictions of further declines.
This upswing follows a challenging year for China’s LNG sector, which had seen a continuous downturn for 12 months prior to this recovery. In late November, forecasts indicated that LNG imports would continue to decline; however, actual figures revealed a different story, with imports from Russia reaching an unprecedented high of 1.6 million tons, doubling the volume from October. The robust demand for LNG contrasts sharply with the previous year, when China aggressively increased its LNG and pipeline gas imports to fill storage capacities.
Throughout the first half of 2025, China recorded a substantial rise in natural gas imports, which totaled 64.65 million tons—a 14.3% increase from the previous year. This surge was largely driven by efforts to stockpile gas during a period of rising domestic production. However, as storage facilities reached full capacity, LNG imports began to wane. The domestic natural gas output hit an all-time high earlier in the year, leading to a 19% year-on-year decrease in LNG imports during the first seven months.
Despite the recent increases in LNG imports, analysts remain cautious about the overall annual totals. Bloomberg reports that while December’s figures signify a recovery, the total LNG imports for 2025 are expected to fall by 12% compared to 2024, with further declines anticipated in 2026, projected at 9%. This outlook reflects the broader trends in energy consumption and production within China, as the country continues to pivot towards greater self-sufficiency in natural gas supply.
As the year draws to a close, the fluctuations in LNG imports highlight the complexities of China’s energy landscape and its ongoing efforts to balance domestic production with international supply needs. The final months of 2025 may provide crucial insights into how these dynamics will play out in the years ahead.
