China's Energy Reliance on Strait of Hormuz Faces Risks Amid Iran Conflict

China is highly dependent on the Strait of Hormuz for about 40-45% of its crude oil and a significant portion of its liquefied natural gas imports. The ongoing conflict involving Iran threatens this critical maritime route, potentially disrupting China's energy supplies and impacting its economy. While China has increased its strategic petroleum reserves and is advancing renewable energy initiatives, a prolonged closure of the Strait could pose serious challenges. Iran appears to allow its own oil tankers, mainly destined for China, to pass safely through the Strait.