Blair, Bruce, Chen Yali, and Hagt, Eric

Abstract
This chapter presents and assesses scenarios of China being cut off from vital oil imports from the Middle East, focusing on a strategic conflict with the US. The paper examines background and justification for China’s fear of a US embargo or blockade that is presented as not entirely impossible. Furthermore, the paper explores the limited implications of a substantial disruption of oil supply for the Chinese economy. The paper states that a US blockade on China’s oil imports from the Middle East is unlikely.
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