Oil Tankers Jam Seas as Global Glut Builds

Core Insights - The amount of oil in transit has reached 1.2 billion barrels, the highest level since 2016, indicating an oversupply situation in the market [2][3] - China is significantly increasing its oil storage capacity, with plans to build 11 new storage sites, adding approximately 169 million barrels of capacity by 2026 [5] - Despite a global oversupply, China is stockpiling crude oil at a rate of nearly 1 million barrels per day, raising questions about its demand strategy [6] Group 1: Oil Supply and Demand Dynamics - The high volume of oil in transit suggests that demand is not keeping pace with supply, as much of the oil is being moved in search of buyers rather than fulfilling pre-existing contracts [3] - The current situation reflects a broader trend of increased production from key oil-producing countries, contributing to the oversupply [2] Group 2: China's Strategic Moves - China's state-owned energy companies are taking advantage of low oil prices to build up inventories, which has been a consistent strategy since early 2025 [4][5] - The new storage capacity being added is significant compared to previous years, indicating a strategic long-term approach to oil procurement [5] - Analysts note that China's stockpiling efforts are occurring despite a lack of domestic demand, suggesting a calculated move to prepare for future supply increases [6]