8 Sep 2026

CHINA IS BACK—AND OIL MARKETS ARE FEELING IT

Chinese oil demand has unexpectedly rebounded, pushing Shanghai crude above $100 per barrel and to a significant premium over Brent. That marks a sharp reversal from earlier in 2026, when weak Chinese imports and refining activity helped contain global oil prices. Now, Chinese buyers are aggressively competing for supplies from Africa, Canada and Latin America as Iranian exports collapse and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz persists. Some African crude grades are reportedly trading at premiums of up to $20 over Brent, while Russian ESPO prices are also strengthening. The rebound appears driven by improving refinery margins, renewed fuel exports and inventory restocking—not necessarily a full economic recovery. But the market implication is clear: Brent is approaching $100 Alternative supplies are becoming more expensive Further shipping disruptions could send prices toward $120 China may have just removed one of the biggest brakes on global oil prices. Source: Zerohedge, Bloomberg

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