Brazil becomes China's second-largest crude oil supplier

Brazil has overtaken Saudi Arabia to become the second-largest supplier of crude oil to China, trailing only Russia. According to customs data for the period between January and September 2026, Brazil exported 44.29 million tons of crude oil to the Chinese market, surpassing Saudi Arabia's 43.12 million tons.

In September alone, Brazilian exports to China reached 5.15 million tons, equivalent to approximately 1.25 million barrels per day (bpd), marking an 18% increase compared to September 2025. In contrast, Saudi Arabian exports to China fell by 62% year-on-year during the same month. Russia maintains its position as the top supplier, exporting 9.94 million tons (2.42 million bpd) to China in September.

The shift is attributed to Brazil's expanding production, particularly from pre-salt reserves, and China's strategic efforts to diversify its energy sources. As China relies on imports for roughly 70% of its oil consumption, these changing supply routes impact global trade flows and market dynamics.