China’s PipeChina (National Oil and Gas Pipeline Network Group) reportedly plans to start up Phase 1 of its Longkou LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) import terminal in Shandong province in October 2026. Phase 1 processing capacity is reported at 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
The Longkou LNG terminal is being built in three phases, with total processing capacity reaching 20 MTPA once fully complete. The storage facilities are reported to include 20 LNG storage tanks of 220,000 cubic meters each. The terminal is being developed and operated by PipeChina and is reported to be linked to gas supply networks in North and East China.
Phase 1 processing capacity is 5 million t/y, with total capacity expected to reach 20 million t/y once all three phases are complete. Storage is planned at 20 tanks of 220,000 cubic meters each, with Phase 1 start-up targeted for October 2026.
As China continues to expand its LNG import infrastructure, the Longkou terminal is reported to contribute to gas supply diversification and expanded storage capacity in North China. Foreign media reports have also noted the terminal as a facility that could potentially receive cargoes from the sanctioned Russian Arctic LNG 2 project.
The sequential start-up of large LNG terminals developed and operated directly by PipeChina illustrates the continued rapid pace of China’s LNG import and storage infrastructure buildout. Following the Phase 1 start-up, further news on the construction and completion of Phases 2 and 3 is likely.
Whether Phase 1 actually starts up as targeted in October 2026, the construction schedule for Phases 2 and 3, and the actual origin composition of LNG cargoes received through this terminal warrant continued monitoring once confirmed.