Analyst View: Iran Conflict Could Strengthen China’s Strategic Position

A screen shows Chinese President Xi Jinping during the opening session of the National People’s Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People, in Beijing on March 5, 2026. (Photo by ADEK BERRY / AFP)

China is reportedly weighing an expansion of its strategic oil reserves as the war involving Iran raises concerns about potential disruptions to energy flows from the Middle East.

While Beijing is preparing for supply shocks as the world’s largest crude importer, some analysts say China may actually emerge from the crisis in a relatively strong strategic position compared with other major economies.

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