China increases purchase of Russian fuel despite war in Ukraine

Aug. 20 (EUROPA PRESS) –

China has increased imports of Russian fossil fuels in recent months, according to official data that show the scant impact that the war in Ukraine has had on the Asian giant’s energy policy.

The Chinese Customs Office confirmed this Saturday that Russia is, for the third consecutive month, the main supplier of oil. In July, China purchased 7.15 million tons of crude oil, 7.6 percent more than in the same period a year ago.

Coal imports soared 14 percent, to 7.42 million tons, and are already at unprecedented levels in more than five years, according to data collected by the Bloomberg news agency.

The data contrasts with the political interest of the European Union to reduce energy dependence on Russia, in retaliation for the military offensive launched in February on Ukraine and in fear of cuts in the coming months.

China, on the other hand, has taken advantage of the occasion to increase imports from the neighboring country, after it has not condemned the Russian invasion.