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Japan LNG – slipping into second place

Japan could lose its top spot as the world’s largest LNG importer by the end of the decade. But with questions surrounding the outlook for nuclear, LNG imports could remain high Japan could lose its top spot as the world’s largest LNG importer by the end of the decade. But with questions surrounding the outlook for nuclear, LNG imports could remain high.
By Catriona Scott 23 March 2018 0 30113
Japan’s LNG import bill rose by 16% on an annual basis last year, despite volumes being relatively flat. (PA)

Japan is the world’s largest LNG importer, but it is questionable how much longer it will hold this position. If Chinese LNG imports continue to expand at their current rapid pace, China could become the world’s largest LNG importer by the end of the decade. Nevertheless, even if Japan slips into second place, the country’s future gas demand will remain critical to the region’s LNG balance.

Japan imported 83.6 mt of LNG in 2017, broadly flat compared with the 83.3 mt it took in 2016. Boosts...