<h1>Asian Nations Sign Long-Term US LNG Deals to Avoid Tariffs Despite Climate Concerns</h1> Asian countries are offering to purchase increased US liquefied natural gas to reduce trade tensions and avoid higher tariffs under the current administration's trade policies. Several nations including Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Philippines, and India are considering or have signed LNG deals, with Japan's largest power generator agreeing to 20-year contracts for 5.5 million metric tons annually starting 2030. However, analysts warn these commitments could undermine climate goals and energy security. Long-term LNG contracts may lock countries into fossil fuel infrastructure, hindering renewable energy adoption. The deals include 'take-or-pay' clauses requiring payment regardless of usage, potentially creating financial burdens as renewable energy becomes more competitive. Experts note the mathematical challenges: countries would need to import far more LNG than currently feasible to meaningfully impact trade deficits. Additionally, global LNG oversupply, cheaper alternatives like coal and renewables, and geopolitical uncertainties raise concerns about long-term energy security and economic viability of these agreements.