China’s oil‑refining sector is tightening its belt again. After a brief relaxation in July, the government ordered all domestic refineries to stop exporting gasoline and diesel starting in October.
- July saw a temporary lift on export limits, letting producers ship more fuel abroad.
- By early October, officials reversed that move, citing concerns over domestic supply and price stability.
- The new rule applies to all major Chinese refineries, effectively cutting overseas shipments of gasoline and diesel.
- Analysts expect the restriction to keep local fuel prices steadier but could tighten global markets.
For now, China is focusing on meeting its own energy needs.