China has instructed the country’s top oil refiners to immediately suspend exports of diesel and gasoline, in a move impacting regional fuel supplies.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the nation’s chief economic planner, issued the directive during meetings with refinery representatives, according to individuals with knowledge of the discussions.
Refining companies have been told to halt the signing of new refined fuel export contracts and to seek cancellation of previously agreed shipments. The measures exclude jet fuel and bunker fuel stored in bonded facilities, as well as fuel exports destined for Hong Kong and Macau.
The measure comes as governments dependent on imported energy are working to safeguard local supply, following a significant reduction in fuel flows from the Middle East triggered by military actions by the United States and Israel.
In a separate announcement, China outlined plans to gradually reduce production capacities in sectors such as steel and oil refining, while tightening capacity controls in industries like copper smelting, alumina, coal, and chemicals. The NDRC also stated efforts will continue to ensure a balanced supply and demand across key industrial sectors, including nonferrous metals, petrochemicals, building materials, and chemicals.
