China and the Politics of Oil

This commentary analyzes China's options for securing its energy imports. In 2012, China imports more than 50 percent of its oil, and that figure is expected to rise to 75-80 percent in future decades. This analysis suggests that Beijing is pursuing an indirect strategy designed to alter the geo-strategic map in China's favor. To ensure stability along key oil routes, the US may have to build up the defenses of friendly or allied states or, at least, encourage their cooperation.

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