China’s commerce ministry has flatly refused to comply with US sanctions targeting five Chinese refineries for purchasing Iranian oil, calling the measures a violation of international law.
Beijing has drawn a firm line against Washington’s latest pressure campaign over Iranian oil.
China’s commerce ministry issued a direct injunction stating that US sanctions targeting five Chinese firms for purchasing Iranian crude “shall not be recognised, implemented, or complied with.”
The ministry argued the measures “improperly prohibit or restrict Chinese enterprises from conducting normal economic, trade and related activities” and violate international law.
The sanctioned firms include three Shandong-based refineries and two others operating elsewhere in China. Washington also separately sanctioned a sixth firm, Qingdao Haiye Oil Terminal, not covered by Beijing’s injunction.
China remains Iran’s largest oil customer, primarily through independent refineries relying on discounted crude. The standoff adds another layer of tension ahead of President Trump’s scheduled visit to China for talks with President Xi Jinping later this month.