Russia Aims to Supply China With 50 Bcm of Natural Gas by 2026

Russia intends to supply China with 50 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas annually by 2026, a significant expansion of the energy partnership between the two countries. The target was announced on Thursday by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.

Supply Routes and Expansion

According to Novak, the ambitious supply goal will be met using the existing Power of Siberia pipeline and a planned transit route through Kazakhstan. This move is central to Moscow's ongoing strategy to redirect its energy exports eastward as its access to European markets remains heavily restricted.

New 'Baikal Power' Pipeline Under Discussion

Novak also confirmed that negotiations are progressing for a second major pipeline project, previously known as Power of Siberia-2. The project has now been officially renamed "Baikal Power."

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State-controlled energy firm Gazprom is in discussions with the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) regarding the new pipeline. An intergovernmental committee is scheduled to hold a specific discussion on the project on Friday, Novak added.

Context and Market Implications

The deepening energy ties provide Russia with a critical, large-scale consumer for its vast gas reserves, while offering China a stable, long-term supply to fuel its economy. For global energy markets, the strengthening Russia-China axis solidifies a major shift in trade flows that has accelerated in recent years.

As Russia pivots to Asia, it creates long-term competition for other major gas suppliers, including exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG). This strategic alignment could influence global gas pricing and investment decisions in energy infrastructure for years to come.