LNG Imports Plummet 2.9% in June Amid European Demand Slump

Global liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports declined by 2.9% in June 2026, reaching 33.36 million tonnes, according to a report by the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF). This decrease was largely driven by lower deliveries to Europe.

The drop was partially offset by increased imports in Asia and the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. GECF attributed the market slowdown to supply disruptions caused by restrictions on LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Despite the monthly decline, global LNG imports rose 1.1% year-on-year from January to June 2026, reaching 215.64 million tonnes. This increase was mainly supported by stronger demand in the MEA region.