Oil Daily | Chinese Crude Imports Surge as Sinopec Resumes Russian Purchases Amid OPEC Tensions

Market BriefThursday, Apr 24, 2025 8:01 am ET
1min read
【Global Oil Supply and Demand】

Indian energy importers have cut the volume of LNG purchases due to rising prices, favoring oil products instead. LNG imports in April are expected to drop by 5% compared to last year. Indian companies are seeking long-term LNG supply deals to manage price volatility, including potential deals with U.S. and Emirati suppliers.

Japan faces potential LNG supply uncertainties from Australia, its top exporter, due to possible policy shifts following upcoming elections. The current Australian government has emphasized domestic supply, affecting exports. Japanese buyers are considering diversifying suppliers to ensure reliable energy access.

【Oil-Producing Countries Dynamics】

Kazakhstan has caused tensions within OPEC by prioritizing national interests over group quotas, potentially affecting compliance and cohesion. Kazakhstan's major projects, primarily led by foreign firms, are expanding, pushing output above OPEC targets, complicating efforts to address overproduction issues.

Chinese state-controlled refiner Sinopec resumed buying Russian crude after halting purchases due to U.S. sanctions. The move follows a cautious approach by Chinese oil majors towards Russian grades. Despite this, Chinese crude imports hit a high in March, with Iranian and Russian crude rebounding.

【Latest Oil Policies】

The U.S. sanctions on Iran indicate a lack of goodwill in nuclear negotiations, according to Iran. Sanctions target the Iranian LPG magnate's network, affecting oil flows. Talks continue, with Iran expressing cautious optimism if the U.S. remains constructive.

【Industry News】

Europe's electricity prices have fallen significantly due to declining natural gas prices and increased renewable power generation. This contrasts with the winter surge in prices driven by high gas costs and low wind power output, which had burdened economies and households.

The Global Wind Energy Council reported a record 117 GW of wind power capacity installed globally in 2024. However, this is insufficient to meet the goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Disparities in deployment and policy instability are challenges for the wind industry.

【Company News】

Baker Hughes remains cautious about its financial outlook due to macroeconomic and trade policy uncertainties, likely related to tariffs. Despite a decline in profits and cash flow, the company believes it can navigate challenges and deliver sustainable growth.

Mexican refinery Olmeca exported its first ultra-low sulfur diesel cargo as it gradually ramps up processing. Despite setbacks, the refinery aims to reduce Mexico's fuel import dependence, though the nation will still need significant imports through 2030.

EQT Corporation agreed to acquire Olympus Energy's assets for $1.8 billion, enhancing its Marcellus and Utica shale gas inventory. The acquisition aligns with EQT's strategy to leverage low-cost positions and tap new gas demand prospects, particularly for AI data centers.

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