Japan supports the Alaska LNG project as its top trade officials prepare to attend a major energy summit in Anchorage next week. The Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, taking place June 3-5, will draw representatives from the US, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan to discuss energy projects and strategic partnerships.
Japan’s Vice Minister for International Affairs, Takehiko Matsuo, will represent the country at the event, Trade Minister Yoji Muto confirmed during a press briefing on Friday. The conference follows a meeting scheduled by US officials for June 2 led by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
Although Matsuo’s attendance on June 2 remains unconfirmed, Muto said discussions would focus on pipeline development and bilateral cooperation. Meanwhile, Japan’s largest liquefied natural gas buyer, JERA, has shown preliminary interest in the $44 billion Alaska LNG project.
According to Bloomberg, JERA submitted an expression of interest to Glenfarne Group, the private developer working with Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC). However, the company did not reveal the potential purchase volume or timeline.
According to the country’s energy ministry, South Korea will also participate in the conference, sending energy policy officials and representatives from Korea Gas Corp. Taiwan has confirmed its attendance, marking broad Asian involvement in the US-backed energy initiative.
Despite growing international interest, environmental concerns have intensified. More than 150 global organizations, led by Friends of the Earth Japan, urged Japan’s government to reject the project. As negotiation unfolds, the Alaska LNG project is at a time when energy policy, climate responsibility, and global trade diplomacy intersect on US soil.
