China is expected to extend its ban on refined fuel exports into April, according to five industry sources familiar with the discussions. The restriction, first introduced on March 12, covers diesel, gasoline and jet fuel shipments.
However, small exemptions may be granted to certain Asian countries facing fuel shortages. Sources said limited volumes of diesel, jet fuel and gasoline could be shipped to Southeast Asian nations requesting assistance.
Three sources said discussions are ongoing to allow exports for April, potentially ranging between 150,000 and 300,000 metric tons. These supplies would mainly target countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Vietnam.
Chinese state-owned oil companies are expected to handle the shipments directly if the exemptions are approved. Spot export sales by private refiners would remain prohibited under the extended restrictions.
The policy comes as several countries in the region seek alternative fuel supplies following disruptions linked to the Iran war. China has indicated it is willing to cooperate with Southeast Asian nations to help ease energy shortages.
Despite the ban, some cargoes continued to leave southern China after March 12 because they had cleared customs earlier. Diesel shipments from bonded storage in Hainan province were among those that proceeded.
Ship-tracking data showed tankers Stavanger Pearl, Auchentoshan and Qian Chi loaded more than 600,000 barrels of diesel from Hainan. The cargoes were bound for Mexico and the Philippines.
China’s National Development and Reform Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the reported extension.
The export curbs highlight Beijing’s efforts to secure domestic fuel supplies while balancing regional demand during ongoing global energy disruptions.