China’s Imports of Saudi Crude Oil Increased 8.8% in March And a Jump in Shipments From The UAE

China’s imports of Saudi crude oil rose 8.8% in March from a year ago, driven by strong demand and with the arrival of shipments delayed due to congestion at ports. Imports from the UAE also increased again, jumping 86%.

The volume of shipments from Saudi Arabia reached 7.84 million tons, which is equivalent to 1.85 million barrels per day, according to data from the General Administration of Customs in China, compared to 1.7 million barrels per day a year ago. However, imports have slowed from 1.94 million barrels per day in February.

Saudi Arabia retained its position as the largest supplier of crude oil to China for the seventh month in a row.