EU imports record 9.89 mln tonnes of Russian LNG in H1 2026
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European countries imported 9.89 million tonnes of Russian LNG in the first half of 2026, an 18% increase year-on-year, according to Arbat Media. France, Belgium and Spain were the main buyers, with total value estimated at €6 billion. The surge comes ahead of an EU ban on long-term Russian LNG contracts set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Record Imports
European Union countries purchased nearly all LNG output from Russia's Yamal LNG plant in the first half of 2026, Arbat Media reported. The 9.89 million tonnes imported set a new record, up 18% from 8.38 million tonnes in H1 2025. France, Belgium and Spain accounted for the bulk of purchases, with total value reaching approximately €6 billion.
Upcoming Ban
The EU's ban on imports of Russian LNG under long-term contracts is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. Short-term contract deliveries are already prohibited. The record imports suggest European buyers are stockpiling ahead of the restrictions, which aim to reduce reliance on Russian energy.
What's Next
The EU is set to enforce the long-term contract ban on January 1, 2027, which will likely reduce Russian LNG flows to Europe. It remains unclear whether European buyers will shift to spot purchases or alternative suppliers to meet demand.
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EU imports record 9.89 mln tonnes of Russian LNG in H1 2026
