China/ Russian oil19 May 2022 15:19
China in talks to snap up cheap Russian oil
China is looking to top up its reserves with cheap Russian oil in a sign of strengthening ties between Beijing and Moscow just as the EU prepares to ban imports.
Government officials are in talks to buy additional supplies that would be used to fill China's strategic petroleum reserves, Bloomberg reports.
Oil has rallied this year following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but the price of its own crude has tumbled as buyers shun Moscow to avoid damaging their reputation or being swept up in financial sanctions.
That’s provided an opportunity for China to cheaply replenish its vast strategic reserves, which are typically tapped during times of emergencies or sudden disruptions.
Meanwhile, the US and UK have pledged to ban Russian oil imports. The EU is discussing similar steps, but talks are being held up by opposition from Hungary.