A liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo from the Portovaya plant in Russia—subject to U.S. sanctions—has arrived in China, marking a strategic pivot in global energy flows. The shipment underscores growing energy ties between Moscow and Beijing amid Western restrictions.
- 138,000 cubic meters of LNG delivered from Russia's Portovaya plant to Zhejiang, China
- Portovaya plant under U.S. sanctions since 2023
- First confirmed shipment from Portovaya to China post-sanctions
- Russian LNG exports to China reached 11 million tons in 2024, up 18%
- Shipment valued at approximately $120 million
- Portovaya plant has annual capacity of 8 million tons
An LNG vessel carrying 138,000 cubic meters of gas departed the Portovaya liquefaction terminal in Russia’s Murmansk region and arrived at a terminal in Zhejiang Province, China, according to maritime tracking data. The Portovaya facility, sanctioned by the United States in 2023 over its role in Russia’s energy export network, has been a focal point of Western efforts to limit Moscow’s access to global markets. The delivery of this cargo—valued at approximately $120 million—signals a shift in Russia’s energy strategy, as it increasingly redirects LNG exports toward Asia to offset lost European demand. China has emerged as a critical buyer, offering a stable outlet despite the geopolitical risks. This shipment marks the first confirmed delivery from Portovaya to China since the imposition of sanctions. The move highlights the expanding role of China in absorbing sanctioned Russian energy supplies. In 2024, China imported over 11 million tons of Russian LNG, up 18% year-on-year, according to independent trade data. Meanwhile, Europe’s reliance on Russian gas has declined to below 20% of total imports, down from nearly 40% in 2021. Market participants note that the transaction could encourage further investment in Russia’s Arctic LNG infrastructure. The Portovaya plant, with annual capacity of 8 million tons, remains operational and is now likely to increase exports to Asia. The delivery may also influence pricing dynamics, with Russian LNG now being offered at a discount to European benchmarks.