China Orders Oil and Gas Firms to Boost Output Amid Gulf Crisis

🛢️ BEIJING — China is building its own oil buffer before the November 5 window closes. 📌 LOOK CLOSER: Beijing directing firms to expand output and strategic reserves is a hedge against Hormuz disruption becoming permanent — not a response to current prices. China's import exposure to Gulf crude makes it structurally vulnerable to any post-strike supply shock. This move insulates Beijing's economy while freeing its diplomatic hand: less import dependency, less pressure to back US de-escalation terms.