China has completely stopped purchasing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States, marking a significant shift in global energy trade. According to customs data, China imported zero US LNG cargoes in the first half of 2024, compared to 4.87 million tons in the same period in 2023—a 100% drop. This abrupt halt follows years of declining imports, which peaked at 9.4 million tons in 2021.

The move reflects China’s strategy to diversify energy sources, favoring cheaper Russian pipeline gas and long-term contracts with Qatar and Australia. Russia supplied 10.2 million tons of LNG to China in 2023, a 40% increase from 2022. Meanwhile, US LNG exports to Asia fell by 25% this year due to weaker demand and high prices.

Trade tensions and US export restrictions on advanced technology may have also influenced China’s decision. Analysts estimate the halt could cost US exporters over $5 billion annually. With China accounting for 12% of global LNG demand, the shift could reshape global energy markets, pushing US suppliers to focus more on Europe.