Spain to Ban Russian LNG Imports from January 2027 Amid EU Restrictions

Spain has announced plans to ban imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) from January 1, 2027. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that Madrid would comply with the European Union's restrictions on Russian energy imports, despite existing long-term contracts held by Spanish companies.

The EU Council formally approved a full ban on Russian LNG imports in January, with corresponding bans on pipeline gas set for September 2027 and existing short-term contracts expiring or being restricted earlier. Albares emphasized Spain's extensive LNG storage and processing infrastructure could help other European countries secure supplies from alternative sources.

According to Enagás data, Russia remains a significant part of Spain's gas imports, with 2,133 GWh of Russian LNG purchased in the final summer month of 2026, equivalent to 7.2% of its total LNG imports. Russia ranked as Spain's third-largest gas supplier behind the United States and Algeria.