U.S. natural gas liquids exports surge to a new record in April, driven by strong global demand. Ship tracking data confirmed the sharp rise in outbound shipments.
Despite ongoing trade tensions with China, the U.S. exported 2.9 million barrels per day of NGLs. This marked an all-time high since exports began rising steadily in 2010.
However, exports to China dropped by 35%, falling to just 619,000 barrels per day. That marked the lowest figure since November 2023.
Still, other nations quickly increased their purchases. India, for example, more than tripled its imports, reaching 179,000 barrels per day. This set a new record for the country.
Meanwhile, Brazil also raised its imports, doubling them to 113,000 barrels per day. That was the highest level seen in five years.
Japan, the second-largest buyer of U.S. NGLs, boosted purchases by 64%, hitting nearly 400,000 barrels per day. That level was the highest since early 2023.
China, facing its own supply challenges, temporarily waived the 125% tariff on U.S. ethane. This action aimed to secure a steady feedstock for its petrochemical industry.
Nearly half of all U.S. ethane exports typically go to China. In fact, China relies solely on the U.S. for its ethane imports.
Because of this, the market responded quickly. Other countries stepped up to fill the gap left by reduced Chinese buying. The global trade of propane, butane, and ethane adjusted without major disruption.
Enterprise Products Partners reported no export interruptions. The firm saw a 5% rise in pipeline volumes and an 11% jump in marine terminal shipments.
Likewise, Energy Transfer stated it had no issues with export demand. Its pipeline volumes rose 4%, while NGL exports increased by 5%.
The Energy Information Administration projects a 3.6% rise in U.S. ethane production this year. Most of the increase will support growing global demand.
U.S. natural gas liquids exports surge again as shale output expands and global markets adapt. Trade tensions remain, but exports continue rising.
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