Beijing's LNG Tariff Still Blocks US Gas Exports Despite New Contract

Washington and Beijing are set to discuss a trade package that could lower tariffs on $30 billion of each side's exports, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), ahead of their September 24 summit.

The U.S. is hoping to revive its LNG trade with China, which was worth $6.2 billion in 2021 but has been blocked by a 15% Chinese tariff imposed in February 2025.

However, the contract signed between Venture Global and China Gas Holdings on September 14 for 500,000 metric tons of LNG per year is seen as a positive sign, but it doesn't commit Beijing to lifting the tariff or importing any cargo under the current regime.

The deal requires none and sets no tariff terms, with deliveries starting in 2030, giving China four years to remove the tariff or renegotiate it.