Global natural gas demand rose to 4,122 billion cubic meters (bcm) in 2024, marking a 1.9% year-on-year increase, driven mainly by strong consumption in Asia and North America. This growth was fueled primarily by the power generation sector, with extreme summer heatwaves boosting gas-fired electricity needs, according to the International Gas Union’s (IGU) Global Gas Report 2025.
On the supply side, global output rose by 65 Bcm, reaching 4,090 Bcm, led by hikes in outputs in the Middle East and Russia, with smaller increases in Asia and North America.
Regional demand patterns diverged in H1 2025, with Europe leading at 6.1% growth, followed by North America at 1.5%.
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) overall trade expanded for the 11th consecutive year to 555 Bcm, led by exports by the United States, Qatar, and Australia. European LNG imports surged 23.6%, driven by higher regional demand and strategic storage injections, while Asian LNG purchases declined amid elevated spot prices and competition with Europe.
Looking ahead, global gas demand is expected to increase by 71 Bcm in 2025, underscoring its continuing importance in the global energy mix despite economic and geopolitical challenges.
Global energy demand is projected to grow significantly by 2030, predominantly led by power consumption surges in China and India, with North America also contributing to this trend. However, emerging uncertainties add complexity to future energy planning.
The report’s findings show a strong rise in energy demand across all regions, but future demand and supply trajectories are subject to considerable volatility. Amidst the geopolitical, economic and regulatory uncertainties, investment in Gas and its infrastructure must continue to enable Gas’s crucial role in reducing global emissions and driving affordable, sustainable development,” IGU President Andrea Stegher commented.
The report highlights the global gas industry’s commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies such as biomethane, bio-LNG, and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). Integrating natural gas with these low- and zero-carbon gases can considerably reduce the carbon intensity of gas-fired power generation and other uses. Furthermore, modern gas infrastructure can be adapted for low-carbon gases like biomethane or hydrogen, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The IGU is a global organization that represents the natural gas industry. With over 130 members in more than 70 countries, the IGU covers over 90% of the world’s gas market. The IGU’s Global Gas Report analyzes the global gas market, providing data on demand, supply, trade, and prices, and assessing its role in the global energy landscape and transition.
IGU plays a role in supporting the dissemination of industry data, highlighting key global gas developments and promoting leading gas practices.
