Crude oil prices fall on Chinese demand worries

On Monday, crude oil prices skidded as investors worried about the weighing impact of China’s new stringent Covid-19 curbs on the demand.

The US West Texas Intermediate futures plunged 2.12% or 2.51 points to $118.16 per barrel. Similarly, the Brent crude contracts slumped 2.12% or 2.56 points to $118.22 per barrel.

Nevertheless, both benchmarks posted significant weekly gains. Subsequently, WTI and Brent accelerated by 1.50% and 1.91%, respectively.

Accordingly, prices significantly tumbled after Chinese officials reported a significant spread of the coronavirus in the capital city. In line with this, Beijing announced plans to conduct mass testing this week. This move added worries about the uncertain outlook for crude demand.

China remains the top importer of oil. Thus, further tightening of pandemic measures in the country will offer more downsides for the black liquid.

Regardless, analysts stated that the gradual normalization of Chinese demand is a powerful positive for crude.

Moreover, market participants also raised concerns about the sharp increase in US inflation last month.

The American consumer prices soared to 8.60% in May, surpassing the anticipated 8.30%. The latest figure marked the highest level in December of 1981, mainly driven by the upsurge in energy costs.

Correspondingly, traders worried about further interest rate hikes, citing possible recession risks.

Saudi Arabia cuts crude supply to China

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, the world’s top crude exporter, announced it reduced its contracted volumes of oil in China. The adjustment will start in July and affect at least five North Asian refiners.

The cut came as more cheap Russian oil headed to the second-largest economy. Subsequently, Beijing has refused to condemn Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia moves to deliver its output in Europe, boosting the supplies in the West. The EU recently decided to phase out the Kremlin crude, leading the buyers to look for another supplier.

Market participants also look forward to the possible impact of labor disputes in Libya, Norway, and South Korea on the oil market.