US ethane production achieved a record high in March 2026, reaching 3.35 million barrels per day (mbd), according to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). This elevated production has been a primary factor in driving US seaborne ethane exports towards new record levels in June. As of June 16, the 28-day moving average for these exports stood at 900,000 barrels per day (kbd).
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this increase in ethane exports signifies a consistent demand for specialized gas carriers. The sustained high volume of exports could lead to increased vessel utilization on key trade lanes, particularly from the US Gulf Coast to international markets. While the article does not specify destinations, typical markets for US ethane include Europe and Asia. Forwarders should monitor charter rates for gas carriers and potential port congestion at loading terminals if export volumes continue to climb, as this could impact scheduling and costs for chemical and energy logistics.
