Saudi Aramco delivers first crude cargo to new Chinese joint venture refinery

Saudi Aramco and its local partners have received the first crude cargo for their new refining complex in China. Rigzone News and Oilprice both reported that the state owned oil giant confirmed the shipment in a statement on October 14, 2026. The shipment of Arabian crude arrived late in the previous week at the facility located in Liaoning Province in northeast China. [1][2]

The delivery brings the billion dollar mega plant a step closer to production. Rigzone News reported that the statement from Aramco did not provide an official start date for the facility. Oilprice reported that commercial operations at the joint venture refinery are now expected in early 2027. [1][2]

According to Oilprice, Saudi Arabia and Aramco began a strategy early this decade to establish joint ventures with local Chinese partners. Rigzone News noted that the refinery is nearing operations as China navigates market disruptions from the United States and Iran war, which is entering its eighth month. [1][2]

To soften the impact of the ongoing conflict, China has implemented various measures. Rigzone News reported that these steps include reducing crude imports as the broader oil market copes with geopolitical fallout. [1]