Kpler

Industry News

Gulf Producers Restore Crude Exports as Iranian Shipments Stagnate, Kpler Data Shows

Tanker-tracking data from Kpler indicates that fresh Iranian crude loadings ground to a halt in September amid blockade pressures. In contrast, oil shipments from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other regional producers rebounded sharply, supported by alternative pipelines, ship-to-ship transfers, and naval escorts. Regional crude exports averaged 16.5 million barrels per day in September before surging to 19.5 million barrels per day in the final week.

Industry News

China LNG Imports Fall in September as Middle East War Lifts Prices

China's LNG imports are estimated at 5.3 million tons in September 2026, down 8 percent year-on-year amid high spot prices and Middle East war risks. Chinese state buyers are exploring long-term contracts bypassing the Strait of Hormuz while maintaining binding agreements with Qatar.

Industry News

Chinese LNG Importers Seek Alternatives to Cap Persian Gulf Supply Risks

Chinese state-owned LNG importers are holding discussions to secure alternative supplies that bypass the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz amid shipping disruptions. Kpler data indicates China's September 2026 LNG imports fell 8% year-on-year to 5.3 million tons as spot prices reached $26 per mmBtu. Chinese buyers are not seeking to cancel existing long-term contracts with Qatar, but are capping further transit exposure.

Industry News

Chinese Demand and Supply Constraints Cut Russian Crude Flows to Indian Refiners

Indian refiners anticipate tighter supplies of Russian crude in October and November 2026 as China steps up purchases and Russian export availability contracts. According to analytics firm Kpler, Russian crude arrivals in India are projected to decline to approximately 1.75 million barrels per day in September. As a result, Indian buyers are turning to alternative supplies, including UAE Murban crude, Iraqi Basrah, and Angolan barrels.