Core Viewpoint - The National Development and Reform Commission has introduced a regulatory framework to promote the fair and open operation of oil and gas pipeline facilities, effective from November 1, 2025, which aims to enhance competition and efficiency in the oil and gas market [3]. Group 1: Regulatory Framework - The newly introduced "Regulatory Measures for Fair Access to Oil and Gas Pipeline Facilities" defines fair access as the provision of oil and gas transportation, storage, unloading, and vaporization services to qualified users without discrimination [3]. - This regulatory framework marks several firsts, including the introduction of departmental regulations in the oil and gas pipeline supervision field, the inclusion of administrative penalties, and the establishment of standardized service processes for fair access [3]. Group 2: Information Disclosure - Information asymmetry is identified as a major bottleneck to fair access, prompting the need for graded public disclosure of relevant information regarding pipeline facilities [4]. - Companies are required to proactively disclose basic information about the fair access system and user registration conditions to the public, while sensitive information should be shared with registered users [4]. Group 3: Positive Impacts - The new measures provide various operating entities with a "pass" to use pipeline facilities, facilitating a more competitive and efficient oil and gas market [5]. - The framework is expected to enhance the participation of oil and gas production companies, urban gas companies, and retail enterprises, while preventing discriminatory practices and ensuring transparency [5]. - It will allow for a more flexible allocation of diverse oil and gas sources, such as imported LNG and coal-derived gas, thereby improving resource allocation efficiency and energy security [5].

Core Viewpoint - The "Regulations on Fair and Open Supervision of Oil and Gas Pipeline Facilities" aims to enhance the efficiency of oil and gas pipeline facilities, ensure stable supply, and establish a fair and competitive market order, effective from November 1, 2025 [1][4]. Chapter Summaries Chapter 1: General Principles - The regulations are designed to improve the utilization of oil and gas pipeline facilities and protect the rights of operating companies and users [4]. - The regulations apply to oil and gas pipeline facilities within the territory of the People's Republic of China and its jurisdictional waters [4]. - Fair and open access means that operating companies must provide services like transportation and storage to eligible users without discrimination [4]. Chapter 2: Basic Requirements for Fair Access Services - Operating companies are responsible for establishing systems to provide fair and non-discriminatory services to eligible users [7]. - Companies must maintain financial independence for their operations and adhere to national pricing policies [9][10]. - The government encourages diverse service offerings based on market demand [10]. Chapter 3: Application and Acceptance of Fair Access Services - Companies must create user registration procedures that are fair and transparent [9]. - Applications from users that do not meet conditions or provide false information will be rejected [13]. - Capacity allocation for services must be conducted fairly and communicated promptly to users [11]. Chapter 4: Contract Signing and Execution - Service contracts must be signed based on fair and non-discriminatory principles [17]. - Companies cannot delay or refuse to sign contracts without valid reasons [18]. - Users must fulfill their obligations as per the contract, and any unused service capacity will be treated as forfeited [20]. Chapter 5: Information Reporting and Disclosure - Companies are required to regularly report information related to fair access services, including user registration and contract execution [22]. - Information must be disclosed proactively and upon request through designated platforms [23]. Chapter 6: Regulatory Measures and Legal Responsibilities - Regulatory authorities have the right to conduct inspections and require compliance from operating companies [25]. - Violations of the regulations can lead to penalties, including fines and warnings [30][31]. Chapter 7: Supplementary Provisions - Definitions of key terms such as "oil and gas pipeline facilities" and "users" are provided to clarify the scope of the regulations [24].