The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) raised its 2026 liquefied natural gas (LNG) export forecast to a record 17.0 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d). Strong international demand and favorable pricing spreads drive this updated outlook. Ongoing global supply disruptions are expected to keep U.S. export terminals operating near maximum capacity.
The agency also increased its 2026 forecast for marketed natural gas production by 2%. This growth is primarily attributed to higher associated gas production from oil-focused drilling.
Crude oil prices are expected to ease in the second half of the year after peaking in the second quarter. The EIA assumes that production disruptions related to the Strait of Hormuz will gradually resolve.