China’s Crude Oil Imports: Trends and Energy Strategy in 2025

China remains the world’s largest crude oil importer, accounting for over 50% of global demand. In 2025, its import volumes reflect shifting geopolitical alliances, supply chain resilience efforts, and evolving energy transition goals. This article analyzes current trends, major suppliers, and strategic implications of China’s crude oil imports.

Growing Demand Drives Import Expansion

Since 2020, China’s crude oil consumption has consistently grown at an average of 4–5% annually, reaching over 55 million barrels per day (mb/d) in 2024. With domestic production hovering around 500 mb/d—insufficient to meet demand—imports have surged to maintain energy security. By early 2025, imports hit a record high, exceeding 7.2 mb/d monthly on average, according to BP’s Statistical Review and S&P Global.

Key Suppliers and Trade Routes

China’s crude oil sourcing remains diversified but increasingly strategic:

• Middle East Dominance: Saudi Arabia leads, supplying over 35% of total imports, with key shipments via maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The longstanding partnership includes major supply contracts and joint investments in refining.
• Russia Surge in Imports: Following Western sanctions, Russia emerged as China’s top crude supplier, rising from 12% in 2022 to over 25% of total imports in 2025. Most oil arrives via pipeline from Kazakhstan and seaborne shipments through the South China Sea and Indian Ocean.
• Gulf of Guinea and Africa: Newer suppliers like Angola and Nigeria contribute increasing volumes, driven by China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) infrastructure investments in logistics and refining.

Strategic Shifts and Energy Transition

While relying heavily on imports, China is cautiously aligning its strategy with climate goals. The Ministry of Commerce reported a 12% rise in imports from OPEC+ nations linked to long-term supply contracts, signaling stability. Simultaneously, state-owned enterprises are expanding joint ventures in renewable energy and battery storage, balancing fossil fuel dependence with future diversification.

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is gaining share, complementing crude imports—2025 data shows LNG accounted for 18% of total energy imports, up from 9% in 2020. This shift supports cleaner energy use while maintaining grid flexibility during transition phases.

Implications for Global Markets and Domestic Policy

China’s import patterns influence global crude pricing and OPEC+ production decisions. Analysts note that continued reliance on Russian oil and Gulf suppliers strengthens geopolitical ties but raises supply chain vulnerability risks. To mitigate this, China is investing in regional refining hubs and strategic oil reserves, currently holding over 120 million barrels—the world’s largest stockpile.

Domestically, policymakers emphasize energy efficiency, electric vehicle adoption, and carbon capture technologies. These efforts aim to reduce crude dependency by 15% by 2030, though full independence remains distant given current infrastructure and industrial demand.

Conclusion

China’s crude oil import landscape in 2025 is defined by strategic diversification, growing Russian partnerships, and cautious alignment with long-term energy sustainability. For businesses, investors, and policymakers, understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating supply volatility and policy shifts. To stay ahead, monitor geopolitical developments, track LNG integration, and support innovation in clean energy. Take action now—evaluate your energy strategy with a focus on resilience, efficiency, and future readiness.