Summary
Several Chinese oil port operators will start new rules to stop foreign "shadow fleet" tankers, which often carry oil from countries with international sanctions like Russia and Iran. These changes are seen as part of the broader impact of international sanctions on China's oil imports. The rules will be effective from November and will focus on the ship's age, past accidents, and invalid documents.
Key Facts
- Qingdao Port in China will apply new rules to foreign tankers from November 1.
- The rules target tankers using fake identification numbers, over 31 years old, or with a history of accidents.
- A scoring system will categorize tankers; those scoring below 55 out of 100 will be denied entry.
- The measures are in response to international pressure from sanctions.
- China has increased its imports of oil from sanctioned countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela.
- U.S. and international sanctions have also named parts of the Qingdao port.
- China is the largest buyer of Iranian oil, despite sanctions.
- There is ongoing international discussion about the impact of such sanctions on global oil prices.
