China's crude oil imports fell sharply in June, reaching a low not seen in almost a decade. The decline was driven by the war in the Persian Gulf and an abrupt slowdown in domestic demand.

The war has disrupted supply routes and raised concerns about stability, prompting firms to reduce orders. Meanwhile, China's economy has cooled, cutting industrial activity and lowering the need for imported oil.

Industry analysts warn that the drop could signal a broader shift in global energy flows, as China adjusts its strategy to balance security, cost, and domestic consumption. The move may also affect global oil prices and trading volumes.

The data underscores how geopolitical events and internal market dynamics can quickly reshape import patterns, even for a major energy consumer like China.