China has a strong economic incentive to see the Middle East oil crisis de-escalate. Weak domestic demand and large crude inventories are helping shield Beijing from immediate supply shocks, but prolonged disruption through the Strait of Hormuz would still raise import costs and pressure Chinese refiners. As one of the world’s largest oil importers, China benefits from stability in Gulf flows, even if it is not currently leading diplomatic mediation efforts.
Source
Reuters, 8 September 2026 — Why isn’t oil above $100 despite supply disruptions?