China’s Customs Administration (GAC) has released data revealing a substantial surge in crude oil imports for August, driven by Chinese refineries actively stockpiling and expanding their refining capacity. This move is expected to bolster profitability as China seeks to export more fuel to international markets.
In August, China’s crude oil imports reached 52.8 million tonnes, equivalent to approximately 12.43 million barrels per day. This figure represents the third-highest daily import rate in China’s history and underscores the nation’s increasing demand for energy resources.
The data indicates that China’s crude oil imports experienced a remarkable month-on-month increase of 20.9% and a robust year-on-year rise of 30.9%. Over the first eight months of the year, crude oil imports have climbed by 14.7% year-on-year, reaching a total of 379 million tonnes.
Su Peng, an analyst specializing in refined oil products at JLC, highlighted the growing rate of oil refining in China. She noted that profit margins from fuel exports have improved, and this trend is expected to continue, leading to a further increase in fuel exports.
Peng also emphasized the escalating domestic fuel demand in China, particularly during August, which is considered the peak period for gasoline demand. As travel restrictions eased amid the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, people embarked on vacations, contributing to heightened travel-related fuel consumption.
However, it’s essential to consider the broader context of China’s economic landscape. Despite the robust performance in the energy sector, the Chinese economy still grapples with challenges. The real estate sector’s slowdown and weaker domestic consumption have impacted fuel demand, casting a shadow on the overall economic outlook.
As China navigates through these economic dynamics, the energy sector’s resilience and the nation’s pursuit of increased fuel exports reflect its commitment to managing its energy needs and contributing to the global energy market.