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Gas & LNG
The global gas market in transition - LNG, infrastructure and sustainability

LNG is the clear winner of the global gas transformation. This article analyses the most important trends and risks.

3/17/2025

LNG as the dominant form of trade

As demand increases, trade is evolving towards more flexible markets with geopolitical challenges. By 2050, 64% of traded gas will be LNG, with a trade volume of 805 Mt LNG (1,110 bcm).

The global market for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is undergoing a profound restructuring. While the Asia-Pacific region remains the main buyer, with China, India and the Southeast Asian states as key players, demand in Europe is changing significantly. Europe's LNG imports are expected to increase from 24% in 2022 to 46% in 2030, mainly due to the replacement of pipeline gas and energy security.

At the same time, the USA and Qatar are consolidating their position as leading exporters of LNG. However, Africa is becoming increasingly important, especially with Mozambique as a new emerging player in the market. The country has significant gas reserves and is continuing to expand its export capacities.

One of the biggest challenges for this growing market remains the expansion of infrastructure. New terminals, transport capacities and liquefaction plants are required to meet the increasing demand and ensure security of supply. Countries and companies are faced with the task of investing in sustainable and efficient solutions to make the global LNG trade fit for the future.

Global LNG liquefaction capacity increases from 476 Mtpa (2022) to over 1,000 Mtpa (2050)
Regasification capacity grows to 1,800 Mtpa, with Asia recording the largest increase

Sustainability and decarbonisation

CCUS technologies and methane reduction are crucial for the carbon footprint of natural gas.
Blue hydrogen could account for 43% of global hydrogen production by 2050
Energy efficiency measures and flaring reduction could bring further CO₂ savings

Conclusion
Natural gas and LNG remain indispensable components of the global energy supply. Nevertheless, massive investments are needed to drive forward the decarbonisation of the sector and overcome the challenges of geopolitical dependencies.

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