Tze San Koh, president of ExxonMobil’s gas business in China at WGC 2025 (WGC)
Do not underplay China’s long-term gas growth narrative
A subdued market amid global trade tensions is just an aberration in gas’ upward trajectory
China’s relatively subdued gas market this year is reflective to some extent of the trade war between Beijing and US President Donald Trump’s administration but is really just a blip, with the long-term growth story for gas in China remaining intact, industry insiders said at the World Gas Conference in Beijing in May. Chinese gas demand is poised to be 70% higher in 2050 than present levels, significantly outperforming a 20% global increase for the fuel, according to Tze San Koh, president of ExxonMobil’s gas business in China and vice-chair of its investment arm in the country. Much of the increase will be driven by coal-to-gas (CTG) switching as coal still makes up more than half of China
Also in this section
12 December 2025
The federal government is working with Alberta to improve the country’s access to Asian markets and reduce dependence on the US, but there are challenges to their plans
12 December 2025
The latest edition of our annual Outlook publication, titled 'The shape of energy to come: Creating unique pathways and managing shifting alliances', is available now
11 December 2025
The removal of the ban on oil and gas exploration and an overhaul of the system sends all the right messages for energy security, affordability and sustainability
10 December 2025
The economic and environmental cost of the seven-year exploration ban will be felt long after its removal
