China is bearing much of Asias crude demand reduction as the Iran war disrupts Middle East oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Its July imports rose from Junes near-decade low but remained 24.3% below last year. Lower imports, supported by large stockpiles, are helping balance tighter regional supplies.

China's crude oil imports recorded a smaller decline in July, though the recovery may be short-lived, as the conflict drags on and demand remains soft.

China is bearing much of Asias crude demand reduction as the Iran war disrupts Middle East oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Its July imports rose from Junes near-decade…