China announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. energy imports, including crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and coal, following new tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Chinese goods. Starting February 10, China will impose a 15% levy on U.S. coal and LNG imports and a 10% levy on crude oil.

Although China is the world's largest energy importer, its purchases from the U.S. are modest, reducing the impact of these tariffs. U.S. crude oil exports to China fell 52% in the first 11 months of 2024, representing just 1.7% of China's total crude imports. However, LNG imports from the U.S. nearly doubled since 2018, totaling 4.16 million metric tons in 2024 and accounting for 5.4% of China's LNG imports. Analysts expect Chinese buyers to avoid buying spot U.S. LNG cargoes but maintain long-term contracts.