China outlined oil and natural gas output targets in its latest five-year plan, seeking to reduce reliance on imports through expanded domestic production.
The targets, disclosed by the National Energy Administration, set a goal of increasing crude oil output to 200 million tonnes annually by 2025, up from 199 million tonnes in 2023. Natural gas production is targeted at 230 billion cubic meters by the same year, a rise from 220 billion cubic meters in 2023.
The plan reflects Beijing’s push for energy security amid volatile global markets and geopolitical tensions. China, the world’s largest oil importer, has prioritized domestic energy development to mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions. State-owned energy giants, including PetroChina and Sinopec, are expected to play a key role in meeting the targets through expanded drilling and infrastructure investments.
Analysts note that while the targets signal a commitment to self-sufficiency, achieving them will depend on technological advancements, regulatory support, and global commodity price trends. The plan also includes measures to accelerate the development of unconventional resources, such as shale gas and coalbed methane.
The five-year plan underscores China’s broader strategy to balance energy demand growth with supply stability, particularly as the economy transitions toward lower-carbon energy sources.
