Russia-China Energy Ties Strengthen as Bilateral Trade Surpasses $50 Billion

Russia and China have strengthened their energy cooperation in recent weeks, as evident from various discussions and agreements reached between the two nations. The 23rd Russia-China Energy Cooperation Committee meeting, co-chaired by Chinese Vice-President Ding Xuexiang and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak on September 4, reviewed oil, natural gas, coal, electricity, renewable energy, and nuclear power, resulting in a broad consensus.

The economic foundation of their cooperation is significant, with Russia's energy resource supplies to China increasing by more than 20% during the first seven months of 2026, exceeding $50 billion. This represents roughly one-third of total bilateral trade during that period.

Russia remains China's leading supplier of oil and pipeline gas and a major supplier of coal and LNG. By 2030, China could account for more than 60% of Russia's total gas exports as the Power of Siberia capacity expands and other routes are developed.