China’s sharp reduction in crude oil imports has played a major role in preventing global oil prices from climbing far above current levels despite disruptions caused by the U.S.-Iran conflict, according to analysts.
The report said China cut crude imports from 11.7 million barrels per day in February to less than 9 million barrels per day by late May.
Analysts at J.P. Morgan estimated that this accounts for roughly 74% of the decline in global crude imports, helping ease pressure created by supply disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude briefly climbed near $98 per barrel after renewed Israel-Iran tensions, highlighting the market’s continued vulnerability to geopolitical risks.
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China is helping to cushion global oil prices below $100 — but analysts warn it won’t last https://t.co/8DBwmN4SOD
— CNBC (@CNBC) June 8, 2026
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