China’s Imports of Russian Oil Plunge at the Start of 2025

Data from China’s General Administration of Customs shows that the country’s crude oil imports from Russia fell by 14.7% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, totaling 24.315 million tons. The overall value dropped to $13 billion—down 22% compared to the same period last year

A Temporary Rise in March Despite the Yearly Decline
Despite the annual drop, imports of Russian oil to China rose by 14% in March compared to February, reaching 8.85 million tons. The value of these imports increased to $4.6 billion, up 9% from the previous month

What’s Behind the Decline?

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The decrease in Russian oil imports is attributed to several factors, including tighter U.S. sanctions on Russian oil tankers, which disrupted supply flows. Additionally, China’s Shandong port group imposed a ban in January on vessels under international sanctions, affecting oil shipments from both Russia and Iran

What Lies Ahead?

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With ongoing geopolitical tensions and persistent economic sanctions, Chinese imports of Russian oil are expected to remain under pressure in the near future. As a result, Beijing may look to diversify its oil supply sources to meet its growing domestic demand