The supply of liquefied natural gas(LNG) is advancing strongly and reshaping the global energy landscape, especially in the run-up to 2026. According to the latest report from the International Energy Agency(IEA), LNG supply is expected to grow by more than 7% during the year, with North America leading the increase.
High demand for natural gas supply in North America
During 2025, global LNG global LNG production increased by almost 7%, with three quarters of this growth concentrated in the second half of the year. The entry into operation of new liquefaction capacity in the United States was strategic.
With increased supply of flexibly-allocated LNG contracts, linkages between regional markets strengthened. Price correlations reached record highs, while energy volatility was accentuated by adverse weather factors and geopolitical tensions. Against this backdrop, the IEA warns of the need to remain vigilant on security of supply.
The European Union is moving ahead with its plan to eliminate Russian natural gas imports by November 2027, while new market reforms are being implemented in Asia. These structural changes rearrange international gas flows and reaffirm the role of LNG in the global energy transition.
Over 90 billion cubic meters per year of new liquefaction capacity was approved during 2025, the second highest figure since 2019. The United States led these investments, consolidating its position as the world’s largest supplier. Contract activity also reached record highs, showing confidence in sustained demand for LNG.
The IEA projects global gas demand growth to reach 2 % in 2026, following a marked slowdown in 2025. New supply will balance markets and improve liquidity. China and other emerging Asian countries will lead the expansion of consumption, reinforcing the importance of LNG in the coming years.
Source and photo: IEA