China’s Fossil Fuels Production Retreats From Record Levels

Chinese fossil fuels output fell in April from the record levels hit in the prior month, although natural gas, crude oil and coal all delivered increases compared to the previous year as the government continues to prioritize security of supply despite weaker prices.

Gas output rose 8.1% year-on-year to 21.5 billion cubic meters, while crude oil increased 1.5% to 17.7 million tons, the statistics bureau said on Monday. Coal production rose 3.8% to 389 million tons, although that was 51 million tons less than March, offering a hint of relief for miners suffering from a slump in prices to four-year lows.