China's crude oil imports from the Middle East hit a record high

China's crude oil imports from the Middle East continued to increase sharply in October 2025, with many markets recording record highs.

China Customs data shows that oil imports from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) nearly doubled in October compared to the same period in 2024, from 2.05 million tonnes to 3.82 million tonnes. Oil flows from Kuwait also jumped sharply, from 970,000 tonnes to 2.36 million tonnes.

On the other hand, imports from Russia decreased slightly compared to the previous year, from 9.83 million tons to 9.11 million tons. However, Russia still maintained its position as the largest crude oil supplier to China, followed by Saudi Arabia with 7.02 million tons and Iraq with 5.05 million tons in October 2025.

Outside the Middle East, China also expanded its supply from several other countries. Oil from Brazil increased from 2.93 million tons to 3.57 million tons, while Indonesia, which had virtually no exports to China a year ago, now supplied 1.54 million tons. In contrast, oil imports from Malaysia fell sharply, from 7.5 million tons to 4.8 million tons.

Official data showed China imported no oil from Iran, Venezuela and the US in October, with the absence of US oil extending into the fifth month.

Earlier reports said the country had accelerated its crude stockpiling as the gap between refining demand and imports reached about 690,000 barrels per day.

Source: VTV