China’s oil imports have surged, with Iranian seaborne oil exports reaching a record level in March. According to tanker tracking consultancy Vortexa, Chinese imports of oil by sea saw a significant rise, particularly from Iran, amid concerns over potential supply disruptions.
Record-Breaking Iranian Exports to China
In March 2025, Iran’s seaborne oil exports to China hit a new high, reaching 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd)—a 50% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This marks the highest volume of Iranian crude exported to China in recent years, showcasing China’s growing reliance on Iranian oil despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The rise in exports is part of a broader trend where China has been increasing its imports of Iranian crude as a response to supply disruptions and pricing advantages in the global oil market. The oil import surge from Iran comes at a time when international sanctions on Tehran remain in place, but China continues to find ways to bypass them, using shadow fleets and alternative shipping routes.
China’s Anticipation of Supply Disruption
China, as the world’s largest oil importer, is closely monitoring potential disruptions in global oil supply. The increased reliance on Iranian crude is part of China’s strategy to secure oil supply in light of global market uncertainties and geopolitical risks. The move also reflects China’s growing energy security concerns as it looks to diversify sources amid OPEC production cuts and other disruptions.
In addition to Iranian oil, China is actively engaging with other oil suppliers to secure favorable pricing and long-term contracts. The 50% rise in Iranian imports highlights China’s willingness to continue trading with Tehran despite potential international repercussions, especially from the U.S. and its allies.
The Impact of Iranian Oil Exports on Global Markets
Iran’s ability to continue exporting significant volumes of oil, despite sanctions, remains a key factor in the global energy landscape. The record exports to China highlight how some nations have found ways to maintain trade relationships with Iran, bypassing Western sanctions through alternative financial channels and non-transparent shipping practices.
The increase in Iranian oil exports to China could have ramifications for global oil prices and supply dynamics, particularly if other countries follow China’s lead in increasing imports from Iran. With OPEC tightening supply and U.S. sanctions continuing to target Iranian oil shipments, China’s purchase of Iranian oil represents a complex balancing act in the global oil market.
Future Outlook
As geopolitical tensions continue to evolve, particularly with the U.S. and China at odds over trade and sanctions, Iran’s oil exports will likely remain a sensitive issue. China’s record-breaking imports from Iran underscore the ongoing global demand for crude and the lengths countries are willing to go to secure supply in an increasingly uncertain energy market.
Looking ahead, China’s oil imports from Iran are expected to remain high, with the potential for further disruptions in global supply as both countries navigate the complexities of international trade and sanctions policies.
Related topics: