China’s energy strategy, focused on self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on crude oil imports, has been validated by the Iran conflict according to the Financial Times. China’s net crude imports fell significantly in the second quarter of 2026, with June imports reaching the lowest level since October 2016. This strategic shift, combined with declining Brent crude prices, appears to have insulated China from external supply shocks. Markets interpret China’s energy strategy as a potential driver of increased geopolitical tensions, which could influence safe-haven assets like gold.
Source: Read the original article
