China is at the forefront of global commodity demand and last year overtook even the US to become the world’s largest importer of crude oil. With its gargantuan appetite and enormous capacities, it is a country that no one in the energy and commodity space in the 21st century can ignore. Perhaps more so than ever before, the country’s vision for its economy, its environment and its role on the world stage has been clearly mapped out.
Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping – who is expected to remain in charge for many years to come – the country is entering a new growth phase, where quality rather than quantity is paramount. So what does a more environmentally-focused, streamlined and globally influential China look like? And what will be the resultant impact on the country’s energy and commodities supply-demand situation?
