National energy situation in the first quarter of 2026
According to a report by People's Daily,the situation in the Middle East has triggered an energy crisis that has affected many countries. How is the situation in China? Official data released.On April 27th, the National Energy Administration held a quarterly press conference, providing a brief introduction to the national energy situation in the first quarter of 2026.
Q: Recently, the energy crisis triggered by the war in the Middle East has affected many countries. How is the current supply and security of oil and gas resources in China?
Zhang Xing, Deputy Director of the Comprehensive Department of the National Energy Administration, stated that since the implementation of the 14th Five-Year Plan, the National Energy Administration has adhered to the new strategy of energy security as its guideline. Based on strategic and systematic thinking, and taking into account China's status as a major country in energy production, consumption, and import, the Administration has coordinated the utilization of "two markets and two resources" both domestically and internationally. It has actively promoted high-quality development in the oil and gas industry, ensuring the capability to ensure supply security under various circumstances.
Firstly, we will significantly intensify our efforts in oil and gas exploration and development, steadily increasing domestic oil and gas production. Crude oil production has consistently maintained an annual output of over 200 million tons and reached new highs, while natural gas production has increased by over 10 billion cubic meters for nine consecutive years.Second, we will accelerate the planning and construction of oil and gas infrastructure, with the mileage of long-distance oil and gas pipelines exceeding 200,000 kilometers, the "national grid" of oil and gas further expanded, and the total receiving capacity of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exceeding 120 million tons per year.Third, we have continuously consolidated and improved the construction of a diversified oil and gas import system, engaging in oil and gas trade cooperation with nearly 50 countries worldwide. Our import sources cover major oil and gas exporting countries globally, ensuring a stable and reliable import of oil and gas resources.In addition, we have continued to promote reliable and orderly substitution of oil and gas consumption. With the joint support and promotion of the aforementioned efforts, the resilience and ability to flexibly respond to risk challenges of China's oil and gas industry have been continuously enhanced.
Since the beginning of this year, the National Development and Reform Commission and the National Energy Administration have conscientiously implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. In conjunction with relevant parties, they have actively responded to changes in the external environment and made every effort to ensure the supply of oil and gas. By stabilizing production, diversifying imports, and implementing temporary price regulation, they have ensured a smooth and orderly supply of oil and gas, effectively safeguarding the stable operation of the economy and meeting people's livelihood needs.According to industry monitoring, from January to March, China's crude oil production reached 54.8 million tons, marking a year-on-year increase of 1.3%; crude oil imports amounted to 146.838 million tons, up 8.9% year on year; and crude oil processing volume is expected to reach 181.7 million tons, representing a 3.1% increase compared to the same period last year.
