Oil Daily | China Demand Concerns, Russia-Ukraine Conflict, Algeria Aids Lebanon, U.S. Gasoline Prices Drop

【Global Oil Supply and Demand】

China's weak economic indicators, including falling home prices and reduced refinery processing rates, have led to concerns over global oil demand. Analysts highlight the softer-than-expected recovery of the Chinese economy as a primary driver for lower long-term global oil demand trends.

U.S. drivers are experiencing relief from high gasoline prices, with national averages falling for three consecutive weeks. This decline in prices is attributed to reduced summer demand and lower demand from other oil-consuming nations. The transition to winter gasoline is expected to continue this downward trend.

【Oil-Producing Countries Dynamics】

A fierce fire at a Russian oil depot in the Rostov region, ignited by a Ukrainian drone attack, has injured over 40 firefighters. The attack, claimed by Ukrainian officials, targeted the Kavkaz oil facility and represents a significant escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing energy installations as key war targets.

Libya's Central Bank resumed operations following the kidnapping of a senior bank official, amidst a power struggle between Tripoli and eastern forces led by General Khalifa Haftar. The conflict over the control of oil revenues and production could potentially push Libya back into civil war.

Colombia's president signed a decree banning coal exports to Israel to pressure Tel Aviv to end the Gaza conflict. This move follows Colombia's diplomatic break with Israel and reflects President Petro's broader agenda, which includes a shift in energy policy towards becoming an energy transition champion.

Algeria will immediately begin supplying fuel to Lebanon's power plants following a complete blackout in Lebanon due to fuel shortages. The support was ordered by Algeria's President to help Lebanon's vital infrastructure, including airports and water pumps, which have been severely affected by the power crisis.

【Latest Oil Policies】

Sara Wagenknecht, founder of Germany's ultra-left party BSW, plans to lift the embargo on Russian oil if her party joins the Brandenburg state government. Wagenknecht argues that resuming Russian oil supplies to the Schwedt refinery would be more efficient and economical, amid ongoing debates and upcoming state elections.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused the U.S. of ordering the 2022 attacks on the Nord Stream gas pipelines. Despite reduced imports from Russia, Europe's overall dependency on Russian energy has not significantly declined, according to analysts. This situation underscores the challenges in completely eliminating Russian energy supplies.

【Industry News】

An explosion at an offshore natural gas pipeline in Louisiana resulted in the death of a worker. The incident, which is under investigation, caused a fire that continues to burn. Initial reports mistakenly linked the pipeline to Venture Global, but the company clarified it was not affiliated with their projects.