China exported 1.85 million tons of diesel in September 2026, the highest monthly volume in three years. The total was up 262.3% year over year, according to customs data reported on October 18.
The surge in refined-product exports, which also include gasoline and jet fuel, followed Beijing’s decision to ease export restrictions imposed in mid-March. The restrictions were intended to secure domestic supply amid geopolitical risks in the Middle East.
Global diesel supplies remain exceptionally tight as refining and export operations face disruptions in the Middle East and Russia. The International Energy Agency (IEA) said in its recent market report that global diesel exports fell by 700,000 barrels per day year over year in September.
China’s exports add barrels to the international market amid the global supply crunch and soaring prices.