China, as one of the largest buyers of Iranian oil, continues to purchase oil from this country despite the sanctions imposed by the United States. This situation indicates the strategic and economic ties between Iran and China, which are currently of high importance, especially from a geopolitical perspective.
China's Purchase of Iranian Oil
According to reports, China purchases an average of 90% of Iran's oil exports, which is considered a key factor in Iran's economic survival. While Iran's oil exports to China have decreased in recent years, they have not completely stopped. In August 2025, China's imports from Iran averaged 534,000 barrels per day, indicating the continuation of this trend.
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Continuity of Economic and Diplomatic Relations
On a diplomatic level, the recent meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping did not yield any new agreements regarding pressure on Tehran. Additionally, China and Russia recently vetoed a U.S. resolution in the United Nations Security Council that sought to extend the mandate of experts monitoring Iran's sanctions. This action clearly demonstrates China's support for Iran against international pressures.
Despite unilateral U.S. sanctions, China continues to maintain air travel between Iran and China. For example, a flight from Mahan Air from Tehran to Guangzhou in China landed. These flights serve as one of the communication channels between the two countries at a time when other international communications for Iran are under pressure due to sanctions.
Economic Consequences of These Relations
Overall, China's continued purchase of Iranian oil and the strong diplomatic relations between the two countries help Iran resist international sanctions. This situation also allows China to remain an influential economic and political power on the global stage and to maintain its interests in the Middle East.
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