Natural gas remains a cornerstone of the global energy system, powering electricity generation, supporting industrial production, and serving as a transitional fuel in the shift toward cleaner energy. Yet, despite its widespread use, proven reserves—those that can be economically extracted with current technology—are highly concentrated in a small group of nations.

According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and the Oil & Gas Journal, the world’s top 10 gas-rich countries collectively control about 83% of global proven reserves, underscoring the strategic and geopolitical weight of the resource.

Russia – 1,688 trillion cubic feet (tcf)

Russia holds the world’s largest natural gas reserves by a wide margin. Its vast Siberian fields underpin its position as a dominant exporter, supplying major markets in Europe and increasingly Asia.

Iran – 1,200 tcf

Iran ranks second globally, with much of its reserves concentrated in the massive South Pars field shared with Qatar. Despite sanctions, natural gas remains central to its domestic energy supply.

Qatar – 843 tcf

Qatar has built a global energy powerhouse on liquefied natural gas (LNG). Its share of the offshore field it shares with Iran has positioned it among the world’s leading exporters.

United States – 615 tcf

The United States combines substantial reserves with advanced extraction technologies, particularly in shale formations, making it a top global producer and exporter.

Turkmenistan – 400 tcf

Turkmenistan possesses vast reserves, though export capacity is limited by infrastructure and geopolitical constraints. A significant share of its gas is exported to China.

Saudi Arabia – 336 tcf

Known primarily for oil, Saudi Arabia is increasingly investing in natural gas to diversify its energy mix and reduce domestic crude consumption.

United Arab Emirates – 290 tcf

The UAE continues to expand its gas sector to support industrial growth and strengthen long-term energy security alongside its oil industry.

China – 265 tcf

China’s reserves play a critical role in meeting rising domestic demand. The country is also accelerating shale gas development to cut reliance on imports.

Nigeria – 209 tcf

Nigeria holds Africa’s largest natural gas reserves. While much of it remains underdeveloped, ongoing investments aim to boost LNG exports and expand domestic utilization.

Venezuela – 195 tcf

Venezuela’s gas reserves complement its vast oil wealth, but economic challenges and underinvestment have slowed large-scale development.

(The Nation)

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