Reuters

China–UAE News

Analysis Highlights Constraints on Chinese Mediation in US-Iran Conflict

China has stepped up diplomatic engagements to urge de-escalation between the United States and Iran amid risks to global energy security, according to a Reuters analysis published by Voice of Emirates. While China remains Iran's top oil buyer, its leverage is primarily commercial and balanced against roughly $300 billion in annual trade with Arab Gulf states. The analysis characterizes Beijing as an active observer rather than a decisive mediator as Qatar leads parallel de-escalation talks.

Industry News

UAE to Invest in Energy Export Routes and Overseas Storage, Minister Says

The United Arab Emirates plans to protect its energy infrastructure and invest in new export routes, overseas storage capacity, and shipping fleets, according to Energy Minister Suhail al-Mazrouei. Speaking at ADIPEC in Abu Dhabi, the minister noted that a new pipeline to Fujairah will double crude capacity by next year. Mazrouei also stated that national crude exports have at times exceeded levels recorded prior to regional hostilities.

China–UAE News

Japan Forecast to Surpass China as World’s Top LNG Importer This Year

Japan is projected to overtake China as the world's largest importer of liquefied natural gas this year for the first time since 2022. Consultancies ICIS and Kpler report that elevated spot prices and elevated domestic storage levels in China have constrained Chinese purchases. The shift comes alongside disruptions to Asian LNG demand following halts to shipments from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

China–UAE News

Reuters Investigation Uncovers Covert Iranian Military Procurement Network Involving UAE and China

A Reuters investigation reported by Yemen Monitor reveals Iran created a covert network of over 5,000 front entities to procure at least $2 billion in military goods since January 2025. The investigation identified shipments originating from China, Russia, and Germany, alongside $27 million in maritime imports from the UAE. Around 97% of transactions avoided cross-border banking transfers through the use of overseas intermediaries and offshore accounts.