US propane exports reach record levels in first half of 2026

United States propane exports reached record levels in the first half of 2026, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Export volumes rose to 2 million barrels per day (bpd), representing an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2025. A peak of 2.1 million bpd was recorded in April 2026.

This growth is attributed to increased domestic production—a byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining—and shifting global trade patterns. While exports to China have declined due to previous tariff impositions, demand has surged in India and other South Asian nations. Importers are also seeking U.S. supplies to replace disrupted shipments from the Middle East, and the petrochemical sector continues to drive demand for propane as a feedstock for plastic production.

To support these volumes, Enterprise is working on an expansion project at the Houston Ship Channel and Nederland terminals, which is expected to add 300,000 bpd of capacity later this year.