Asian LNG Spot Prices Recover to $13/mmBtu on Japan-Korea Buying

The Asian LNG spot price benchmark JKM recovered to $13/mmBtu this week, rebounding approximately 35% from early-year lows. The primary driver is dip-buying by Japanese and South Korean buyers, combined with Asia-Pacific entering the peak summer electricity demand season. According to industry data, Japan's summer LNG procurement volume is expected to increase approximately 8% year-on-year, with South Korea up about 5%. European TTF natural gas futures also moved higher, currently near €41/MWh. Markets expect limited global LNG supply additions this year, and if summer demand exceeds expectations, significant upside price risk exists for the second half.