US-China Discuss Cutting Tariffs on LNG Exports Amid Energy Deal Talks

The US and China are discussing a plan to reduce or eliminate China's tariffs on American liquefied natural gas (LNG) as part of broader energy and agriculture agreements. This move is expected to be announced during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Washington next week.

According to sources, the potential relief on US LNG exports could be part of a package that includes both countries cutting tariffs on around $30 billion worth of goods.

China imposed a 15% tariff on US LNG in February 2025, effectively halting trade between the two nations. This move is seen as an attempt to stabilize trade ties ahead of a meeting between Trump and Xi on September 24th.

The American LNG industry is expanding rapidly, with export capacity set to increase by roughly 10 billion cubic feet per day through 2027. The return of Chinese buyers would provide US producers with another major market for their gas at a time when global energy flows are being reshaped due to geopolitical events.