Emerging markets to bolster Asian LNG demand
Although recent, firmer gas prices have blunted some price-sensitive demand, the overall growth outlook remains robust
Asian spot LNG prices are trending at their highest level since January, sapping some interest from price-sensitive buyers in the region’s emerging markets after they took advantage of lower costs in the first quarter of 2024. But the LNG outlook for this year for the fast-growing markets of South Asia and Southeast Asia remains firm, as rising demand is underpinned by electricity generation needs. Asian spot LNG prices for delivery in June averaged $10.5/m Btu for the week ending 21 April compared with a year-to-date low of $8.30/m Btu in early March. Prices fluctuated at $8–9/m Btu from February to March, which helped unlock Asian demand. Accordingly, spot LNG imports by regional buyers in

Also in this section
29 July 2025
The EU’s Russia sanctions could have far-reaching implications for India’s Vadinar-based refinery
29 July 2025
There is a good strategic case for China to sign a deal for gas supplies via the proposed Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, but Beijing’s concerns over over-dependency on a single supplier and desire to drive down the price make it relatively unlikely that a contract will be finalised this year.
29 July 2025
EU industry and politicians are pushing back against the bloc’s green agenda. Meanwhile, Brussels’ transatlantic trade deal with Washington could consolidate US energy dominance.
25 July 2025
KRG, Iraq’s central government and Turkey are all working to get exports flowing from the key port, but complications remain