16:49 - 12.01.2026

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January 12, Fineko/abc.az. The suspension of Venezuelan oil exports to China due to U.S. actions may temporarily strengthen the position of Russian companies. The dropped volumes (nearly 690,000 b/d) create conditions for increasing supplies to China, especially for independent refineries, and potentially reducing discounts on heavy grades of oil.

ABC.AZ informs that analysts note that in the short term, demand for Russian and Iranian oil in East Asia may increase. Even if supplies from Venezuela resume, they are likely to be redirected to the U.S., which will reduce competition with Russia in Asia.

However, the effect may be limited: OPEC+ quotas, logistics, and the possibility of agreements between China and the U.S. are in the way. An additional risk for Russia remains the nafta market, where the U.S. has already begun to displace Russian suppliers. As a result, the benefits for the Russian Federation are more tactical than long-term.