US LNG Exports Surge 23% in First Half of 2026 on Capacity Additions

U.S. liquefied natural gas exports averaged 17.4 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) during the first half of 2026, representing a 23% increase compared to the same period in 2025, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration's Natural Gas Monthly. The expansion in export volumes during the six-month period was driven by higher operational capacity.

In the second half of 2026, outbound shipments are expected to hold near current levels. The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates in its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook that domestic LNG exports will average 17.3 Bcf/d across the final six months of the year.

Looking further ahead, export growth is forecasted to resume its upward trajectory. According to projections in the agency's Short-Term Energy Outlook, U.S. liquefied natural gas exports are expected to rise to an average of 18.7 Bcf/d in the first half of 2027.