China's LNG imports experienced a slump in 2022
Chinese gas demand set to rebound
The Asian giant’s LNG imports slumped last year but look likely to recover in 2023
The end of pandemic lockdowns and Beijing’s renewed emphasis on economic growth will be a welcome stimulus for Chinese gas consumption, which declined last year for the first time in a generation. But demand could still be choppy amid market uncertainties. China’s apparent gas consumption edged down by 1.7pc year-on-year in 2022, to 366.3bn m³, according to the latest official figures. The contraction marked a departure from the previous growth trajectory, as higher global prices and tight pandemic controls depressed domestic demand. At the same time, lower Chinese demand offered relief to Europe as governments from Berlin to London scrambled to secure LNG supplies as an alternative to Russi
Also in this section
24 July 2025
The reaction to proposed sanctions on Russian oil buyers has been muted, suggesting trader fatigue with Trump’s frequent bold and erratic threats
24 July 2025
Trump energy policies and changing consumer trends to upend oil supply and demand
24 July 2025
Despite significant crude projections over the next five years, Latin America’s largest economy could be forced to start importing unless action is taken
23 July 2025
The country’s energy minister explains in an exclusive interview how the country is taking a pragmatic and far-sighted approach to energy security and why he has great confidence in its oil sector
