China’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports increased for a second consecutive month in June as the world’s largest LNG consumer accelerated purchases ahead of the peak summer demand season.
Customs data showed that China imported 5.68 million tonnes of seaborne LNG in June, representing an 8.3% increase compared with the same month last year. The rise marks a recovery from a period of weaker buying activity caused by elevated prices and uncertainty over global supply conditions.
Buyers Move to Replenish Inventories
The increase in imports comes as Chinese energy companies seek to rebuild LNG inventories following earlier supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Concerns surrounding shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz contributed to volatility in global gas markets, pushing some buyers to secure additional cargoes as they prepared for stronger seasonal consumption.
China’s LNG imports had dropped to their lowest level in eight years in April, reflecting the impact of high spot prices and cautious purchasing decisions during a period of heightened supply risks.
Supply Sources Shift as Gulf Flows Decline
The Middle East has historically been an important supplier of LNG to China, with the Arabian Gulf accounting for a significant share of the country’s imports. However, reduced flows from the region have encouraged Chinese buyers to rely more heavily on alternative suppliers.
Additional cargoes from countries such as Malaysia, Russia, and Canada have helped compensate for lower Middle Eastern deliveries, according to shipping data.
The shift highlights China’s broader strategy of diversifying energy supplies to reduce exposure to geopolitical disruptions and maintain stable fuel availability.
Recovery Underway Despite Lower First-Half Volumes
Despite the improvement in June, China’s LNG imports during the first half of the year remained 5.6% below the level recorded during the same period in 2025.
However, recent shipping trends indicate that the decline is narrowing, with LNG arrival rates improving in July as importers continue restocking ahead of higher seasonal demand.
China’s purchasing decisions will remain a key factor for global LNG markets in the coming months. A sustained recovery in demand from the country could tighten available supplies and provide further support to international gas prices.
