U.S. LNG Export Surge Constrained by Jones Act Domestic Shipping Ban

U.S. LNG exports have surged since 2016, with capacity projected to reach 8+ BCF/D by end-2018 and potential to rival Australia and Qatar as top exporter. Despite abundant domestic supply, the Jones Act requirement for U.S.-built tankers effectively bars domestic LNG shipments, forcing New England and other regions to rely on imports from Trinidad and Tobago, Russia, and other sources.