US LNG Exports Surge 23% in H1 2026 Amid New Capacity and Strong Global Demand

US liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports have seen significant growth in the first half of 2026, increasing by 23% compared to the same period last year. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that new terminals and expansions at existing facilities have boosted export capacity, leading to a surge in shipments.

The average daily LNG exports from the US stood at 17.4 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) during the first six months of 2026, up from 14.3 Bcf/d in the same period last year. The increase marked the fastest growth in US LNG exports since large-scale shipments began in 2016.

One of the key contributors to this growth is the Plaquemines LNG terminal, which has reached full capacity, and Corpus Christi Stage 3, which is exporting from six out of seven liquefaction trains. Once completed, these projects are expected to increase nominal US LNG export capacity by a combined 4 Bcf/d.