In the first four months of 2026, China imported 40.8 million tonnes of oil from Russia — up 26% year on year. In value terms, supplies grew 21.5% to $20.9 billion. Russia has thus retained its position as China’s largest crude oil supplier.
Saudi Arabia ranks second, but its exports to China fell 10.3% to 23 million tonnes — a direct consequence of the effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted shipments from the Middle East.
Third place was taken, unexpectedly, by Brazil, which grew its deliveries by 84% to 20.9 million tonnes. Malaysia follows with 17.5 million tonnes (down 33%), while Indonesia sharply increased its exports to China — from 114,800 tonnes a year earlier to 14.1 million tonnes.
The monthly picture tells a slightly different story. In April, the physical volume of Russian oil received by China fell 10.8% compared to March, totalling 9 million tonnes. However, the value of imports rose 18.6% to $6.3 billion.
It is also worth noting that China’s domestic oil production is growing, albeit slowly — up 1.2% in April to 17.9 million tonnes.
Sino-Russian oil cooperation continues to deepen despite month-to-month fluctuations. For Russia, this means a stable export market as it redirects trade eastward. For China, it means a reliable supplier helping to diversify feedstock sources amid global energy instability.
Source: @nefte_baza
Image: @nefte_baza
