Strategic Energy Map

Oil pipeline

Kazakhstan–China Oil Pipeline

Kazakhstan (Atyrau) to China (Alashankou/Xinjiang). ~2,228 km.

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Overview

Kazakhstan (Atyrau) to China (Alashankou/Xinjiang). ~2,228 km. Capacity ~400,000 bpd. Commissioned in phases 2006-2009. Operated by CNPC/KazMunayGas JV. Carries Kazakh and some Russian-origin crude.

Geopolitical context

Part of China's strategy to secure overland energy supply that cannot be interdicted by naval power in the Strait of Malacca. CNPC's 50% ownership gives China direct operational control over a key supply artery. Kazakhstan carefully balances between Russia (CPC pipeline to Black Sea) and China (this pipeline) to avoid dependency on either. Some Russian crude has been re-exported through this pipeline to China, creating a sanctions gray zone. The pipeline enters China through Xinjiang, where Beijing has concentrated strategic infrastructure and industrial development alongside its security operations in the region.

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