CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF CHINA’S ECONOMIC INTERESTS IN IRAN’S OIL AMID U.S. SANCTIONS

Abstract

T

he background of this research is connected with China's economic interest in Iran's oil sector within the context of United States sanctions against Iran. With the rapid industrialization of China, the growth of energy demand continues; therefore, there is a strategic need for stable and inexpensive oil supplies. Iran with some of the world's biggest oil reserves is an attractive partner for China, more so when U.S. sanctions open up gaps in market access to Western countries. This paper analyses the deeper interests that led China into the oil sector in Iran, such as economic interests, energy security, and mutual interest in counterbalancing the influence of the U.S. in the Middle East. This paper uses qualitative research to obtain information from official documents, policy papers, and academic literature sources to make an effective comprehensive analysis of the Sino-Iranian oil partnership. Through content analysis, it will establish key themes in China's strategic approach toward Iran, and the comparative analysis will evaluate if the engagement between China and Iran is unique to its dealings with other sanctioned states. It will, therefore seek to find how China's action in Iran does not only improve energy security but also challenge the effectiveness of US foreign policy tools. By examining this partnership in the post-2018 sanctions era, this study explores the new geopolitical and economic consequences arising from the China-Iran connection in a shifting world environment. Findings will indicate China's regional aspirations as well as its overall modus operandi to successfully navigate U.S.-centered global systems.

Key Words: China, Iran, Oil Industry, U.S. Sanctions