Japan has pledged support for the EU regarding LNG support
LNG pledge to Europe raises doubts
Japan’s ill-defined promise of support may be more symbolic than practical
US and Japanese authorities suggested in February that Japan might be able to spare LNG to help Europe in the event of a reduction in Russian pipeline flows. But it may not be a practical solution, given Japan’s own needs and European capacity constraints. Japan has pledged support for the EU regarding LNG supply, but it is unclear whether anything specific was agreed. In February, Japan’s powerful Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (Meti) stated that “in response to a request for LNG accommodation to Europe”, “the policy of Japan [is] to cooperate as much as possible, on the premise that a stable supply to Japan will be secured”. A statement from the US ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanue
Also in this section
11 February 2026
Panellists from three LNG buyers at LNG2026 in Doha outlined their evolving procurement strategies as they navigate heightened market volatility
11 February 2026
North African producer plans to boost output by early 2030, with Europe its number one priority as export destination
11 February 2026
Maritime leaders at LNG2026 warned of the dangers of over-regulation on competitiveness, sustainability and innovation
10 February 2026
The country has opened bidding on 50 blocks in a new licensing round but will face competition for attention and will need to address concerns about security and legislation
