South Asia's Scorching Summer Drives Up LNG Demand

South Asia's demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is expected to surge this summer, driven by intense heat and industrial growth in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

Kpler, a global energy intelligence company, has raised its LNG demand forecasts for the three countries in July 2026. In India, where temperatures are forecasted to be above normal, Kpler's analysis indicates that gas-fired electricity generation will increase to meet cooling needs. As a result, India is likely to stay active in the spot LNG market during the summer.

Bangladesh also shows robust demand, with April's total gas consumption exceeding Kpler's predictions despite tighter supply conditions and lower gas availability. The country's Meteorological Department expects above-normal temperatures from July through September, leading Kpler to boost its full-year 2026 Bangladesh LNG demand forecast.

Pakistan's electricity generation mix is more complex, with nuclear power output down in May due to maintenance. However, this reduction has increased the need for alternative generation during the third quarter, supporting a rise in LNG demand.