China Middle East Crude Imports Fall as Vehicle Shipments Hold Steady

Chinese customs data shows trade with 23 Middle East and North Africa countries reached $329.3 billion in the first nine months of 2026. Crude oil imports from the region fell 38.6% year-on-year amid shipping frictions, while passenger vehicle exports totaled $15.9 billion.

Published October 23, 2026 Source: Alhurra

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中文 Chinese version
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China's total trade with 23 Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries reached $329.3 billion during the first nine months of 2026, according to Chinese customs data published on October 22, 2026, and reported by Alhurra.

Chinese crude oil purchases from MENA suppliers dropped 38.6% year-on-year to 809 million barrels during the period, driven by regional shipping frictions. Saudi crude shipments to China decreased 27.6% to 316 million barrels, allowing Brazil to temporarily surpass Saudi Arabia as China's second-largest oil supplier.

In contrast, Chinese passenger vehicle exports to the Middle East remained resilient through September, totaling $15.9 billion. The export volume was supported by third-quarter shipments of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.