On May 29, the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Asia and the Pacific Subcommittee held a hearing to discuss potential U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to meet rising energy needs in Asia.

Witnesses representing academia, industry, and non-governmental organizations expressed support for U.S. exports of LNG to Asia, citing a number of economic benefits including domestic job creation and reduction of the U.S. trade deficit. They also emphasized the geopolitical advantages of fostering trade relationships, and the decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants by switching to LNG from other fuels. Mikkal Herberg, Research Director for the Energy Security Program at the National Bureau of Asian Research, described the situation as a “win-win-win.”

Although the witnesses acknowledged that exports of American LNG to Asia could potentially increase domestic LNG costs and lead to greater competition with other suppliers, they ultimately agreed that the U.S. should export LNG to Asia. Their comments reinforce the recent passage of the Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act (H.R. 6) by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, which expedites approval for U.S. companies to export LNG to World Trade Organization countries.

Sources: House Energy and Commerce Committee, House Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific