China Extends Fuel Export Ban with Small Exemptions

China is expected to extend its current ban on refined fuel exports through April, according to industry sources in Singapore. While the broad restriction remains in place, authorities are reportedly considering small exemptions for specific regional nations that have requested energy assistance. Discussions are currently focused on providing limited volumes of diesel, jet fuel, and gasoline to several Southeast Asian neighbors. Countries that may receive these supplies include Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Vietnam. Sources suggest that while spot sales by refiners will remain prohibited, total permitted exports for these cases could range from 150,000 to 300,000 metric tons. The logistics for these government-sanctioned shipments would be handled by major state-owned enterprises, including PETROCHINA CO LTD-H, CNOOC LTD-H, and SINOPEC KANTONS HOLDINGS. This move comes as nations like the Philippines seek energy security support from Beijing amid ongoing geopolitical volatility. The export ban, which began on March 12, excludes international aviation refueling and maritime bunkering. Despite the tight controls, some fuel shipments have recently reached international markets, such as Mexico, involving cargoes that were reportedly cleared by customs before the restrictive policy was fully implemented.