Japan considers financial support to boost U.S. LNG output

Tokyo and Washington to discuss cutting energy dependence on Russia

Tugboats guide a liquefied natural gas tanker at the Cheniere Sabine Pass LNG export unit in Louisiana. Japanese firms are involved in an LNG project in the U.S. state. © Reuters

MASAYA KATO and JUNTARO ARAI, Nikkei staff writers

May 4, 2022 23:53 JST

Updated on May 5, 2022 00:59 JST

WASHINGTON/TOKYO -- Japan will consider providing financial support to boost production of liquefied natural gas in the U.S., Nikkei has learned, as it seeks to lessen its energy dependence on Russia following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Koichi Hagiuda, Japan's minister of economy, trade and industry, is visiting the U.S. and will meet with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm on Wednesday. They expect to agree on forming a bilateral consultative body devoted to green energy and energy security.