China’s focus is shifting to economic recovery
China’s energy demand faces headwinds
Economic difficulties mean the outlook for H2 remains highly uncertain despite planned stimulus measures
China’s efforts to drive an economic recovery may result in greater energy demand through the rest of this year, but the outlook is highly uncertain and will depend on the level of stimulus policymakers provide. China barely avoided an economic contraction in the second quarter of this year. GDP expanded by just 0.4pc, a massive step down from the 4.8pc seen in the first quarter, as Covid lockdowns—mainly in the northeastern province of Jilin and the commercial hub of Shanghai—slowed the economy. As China’s Covid situation has largely stabilised, the country’s focus is now shifting to economic recovery as Beijing vies to keep this year's official 5.5pc growth target in sight. 4pc – ADB
Also in this section
24 December 2025
As activity in the US Gulf has stagnated at a lower level, the government is taking steps to encourage fresh exploration and bolster field development work
23 December 2025
The new government has brought stability and security to the country, with the door now open to international investment
23 December 2025
A third wave of LNG supply is coming, and with it a likely oversupply of the fuel by 2028
22 December 2025
Weakening climate resolve in the developed world and rapidly growing demand in developing countries means peak oil is still a long way away
