Taiwan has announced plans to purchase 6 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually from a major U.S. pipeline project in Alaska. The deal, which could involve up to $4.4 billion in investment from Taiwan, follows a letter of intent signed by the state-owned CPC Corporation in March 2025. The project, an 807-mile pipeline connecting Alaska’s North Slope to an LNG export terminal, is expected to begin supplying Taiwan’s natural gas needs as early as 2032.
U.S. President Donald Trump highlighted the agreement at a political rally, describing it as one of the largest deals ever made. He noted that Taiwan has committed to buying 30% of the gas produced by the pipeline for the next 20 years. However, Taiwan’s statement did not specify the exact duration of the commitment. The deal comes amid growing tensions with China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has pressured the U.S. to halt arms sales to the island.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs emphasized that the agreement aims to diversify its natural gas supply and deepen cooperation with the U.S. The ministry stressed that the cooperation would be conducted on principles of mutual benefit and professionalism. Negotiations on specific investment arrangements and terms are still ongoing.
China has criticized the deal, with a Foreign Ministry spokesperson stating that Taiwan’s external exchanges must adhere to the ‘one-China’ principle. The spokesperson also condemned attempts by Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party to pursue independence under the guise of economic cooperation.