Canada eyes LNG push to Asia to ease Europe’s energy strain

Canada could play a growing role in global energy markets by increasing liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Asia, a move that may indirectly bolster Europe’s energy security, according to the head of TC Energy.

Chief executive François Poirier said that expanding LNG shipments to Asian markets could help ease pressure on global supply chains disrupted by escalating tensions in the Middle East. By redirecting Canadian LNG toward Asia, additional gas volumes could become available for Europe, helping stabilise its energy supply.

Speaking to The Globe and Mail, Poirier emphasised the logistical advantages of exporting LNG from Canada’s west coast. Deliveries to Asia can be completed in roughly eight days, avoiding congested maritime chokepoints, which provides a competitive edge over other export routes.

Market analysts also highlight the increasing use of “swap” arrangements, in which LNG cargoes are redirected through contractual exchanges rather than physical delivery to the end destination. Such mechanisms allow for more flexible balancing of global gas markets, ensuring supply reaches regions where it is most needed.

Canada has already begun exporting LNG from the province of British Columbia, while discussions continue over the construction of additional large-scale export terminals. Among the proposed projects is the Ksi Lisims LNG facility, which is expected to significantly expand the country’s export capacity.

Several major international energy companies, including TotalEnergies and Shell, have already signed agreements to purchase Canadian LNG, underlining growing global interest in the country’s emerging role as a supplier.

By Tamilla Hasanova