Shell projects LNG demand will climb 65% from 2025 levels, driven by South and Southeast Asia, despite near-term supply disruptions.
Global liquefied natural gas demand is expected to increase 65% by 2050 compared to 2025 levels, fueled by rising consumption in South and Southeast Asia. The projection comes despite stalled growth this year due to Middle East supply constraints, which disrupted a fifth of monthly LNG trade.
Last year, 422 million tons of LNG were traded globally, with early 2026 forecasts anticipating a rebound. However, the Strait of Hormuz crisis and regional conflicts have elevated spot prices, delaying expected gains.
Shell’s outlook highlights long-term structural demand but underscores near-term volatility from geopolitical risks.