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Xi Jinping shows interest in buying U.S. oil from Texas and Louisiana

May 14, 2026, 5:55 PM20
(Update: May 15, 2026, 4:33 AM)
president of the United States from 2017 to 2021
country primarily in North America
country in East Asia

Xi Jinping shows interest in buying U.S. oil from Texas and Louisiana

  • President Donald Trump reported that Xi Jinping is open to discussing the purchase of U.S. oil.
  • China halted imports of U.S. crude oil since May 2025 due to tariff hikes.
  • A shift towards U.S. oil could impact oil dependency on Iran and benefit U.S. interests.
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In recent discussions, U.S. President Donald Trump conveyed that Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed interest in potentially purchasing oil from the United States, specifically from regions like Texas, Louisiana, and Alaska. This statement emerged during Trump's interview with Fox News, where he noted Xi's favorable response to the idea, asserting that it could lead to realizable agreements. Trump's optimism coincided with the ongoing rise in U.S. gas prices, prompting discussions about energy sourcing options. China has historically imported substantial oil from the Strait of Hormuz, but recent geopolitical tensions and the war against Iran have influenced this dynamic. Reports indicate that China halted its imports of U.S. crude oil in May 2025, following tariff increases imposed by the Trump administration. In the context of talks between the leaders, the White House suggested that China could leverage its influence over Iran to help stabilize the Strait and explore avenues for buying U.S. oil. During the conversations, various requests were exchanged between the U.S. and China, including discussions on agricultural purchases and potential aircraft orders from Boeing. These discussions highlighted fluctuations in U.S.-China trade relations while emphasizing China's aspiration to enhance its energy security. Analysts pointed out that if China were to increase its purchases of American oil, it could reduce its reliance on Iranian crude, which could alter regional energy supply chains and create beneficial conditions for the U.S. and detrimental circumstances for Iran in the geopolitical landscape. China currently imports nearly half of its oil through the Strait of Hormuz, a significant portion of which has been dependent on Iranian sources. While it's in China's interest to seek more stable oil supply routes, it must navigate complex relationships in the Middle East while aligning its energy policies with geopolitical realities. Xi's interest in this dialogue reflects broader strategic shifts with potential ramifications for global oil markets amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

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