Russia Surpasses Europe as Primary Gas Supplier to China

The Federal Government of Russia pivoted its energy exports toward Asian markets in 2025, resulting in a surge of both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and pipeline deliveries to China. By October 2025, Russia became China's second-largest LNG supplier, overtaking Australia. Chinese customs data shows Russia exported 9.8 million tons of LNG to China in 2025, an 18.3% annual increase, with December 2025 recording a record 1.9 million tons.

Pipeline exports also reached historic levels. According to the International Energy Agency, deliveries via the Power of Siberia pipeline rose 25% to nearly 39 billion cubic meters. For the first time, Gazprom supplied more gas to China than to Europe. By December 2024, the pipeline had reached its maximum design capacity of 38 billion cubic meters per year, with 2025 supplies eventually exceeding contractual obligations by nearly 800 million cubic meters.

This strategic shift follows the reduction of Russian pipeline supplies to the European Union due to the conflict in Ukraine and Western sanctions. Russia is now leveraging the Northern Sea Route and the Power of Siberia pipeline while developing the Power of Siberia 2 through Mongolia. Total Russian gas supplies to China, combining both delivery methods, rose 33% year-on-year as of November 2025.