BUSINESS

China Maps Out Oil and Gas Buildout Through 2030 to Strengthen Energy Security

Published: Aug. 18, 2026 3:35 a.m. GMT+8

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The Shengli Oilfield steps up oil and gas exploration and development in Binzhou, Shandong province, China, on June 23, 2026. Photo: VCG

China has unveiled a strategic plan for its oil and gas sector through 2030, setting targets for a broad expansion of domestic production, pipeline infrastructure and storage capacity as Beijing seeks to bolster energy security.

The blueprint highlights two priorities: reducing exposure to global supply disruptions, sharpened by recent conflict in the Middle East, while preparing for a peak in oil consumption and a gradual integration of lower-carbon alternatives.

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China aims to raise domestic oil and gas supply to 440 million tons of oil equivalent and expand pipelines to 220,000 km by 2030.
The plan prioritizes energy security through strategic reserves, diversified imports, and market reforms encouraging private investment.
It promotes peak oil consumption by 2030, reduces emissions, and integrates carbon capture and hydrogen infrastructure.

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Who’s Who

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What Happened When

2018–2025：: Seven-year action plan period; annual crude output rose to a record 216 million tons, with offshore fields accounting for 70% of increase; natural gas production reached 262.1 billion cubic meters.

July 2025：: National Energy Administration report shows domestic oil and gas output reached 420 million tons of oil equivalent by 2025.

By end of 2025：: China had 33 LNG terminals with annual receiving capacity over 160 million tons.

First half of 2026：: U.S.-Iran war occurred; strategic reserves helped cushion domestic supply.

August 18, 2026：: China's National Development and Reform Commission releases the 15th Five-Year Plan for Oil and Gas Development.

2026–2030 period：: Plan promotes peaking petroleum consumption.

By 2030：: Authorities aim to raise domestic oil and gas supply to 440 million tons of oil equivalent and add 20,000 km of pipelines, raising total to 220,000 km.

By 2030：: Increase natural gas storage capacity to over 13% of annual consumption; expand LNG receiving capacity to 200 million tons/year; lift onshore pipeline import capacity to 114 billion cubic meters annually.