21 Apr 2016 11:55

Russian ministry expects increase in oil shipments to China in 2016

MOSCOW. April 21 (Interfax) - Russian oil shipments to China will increase in 2016, Deputy Energy Minister Kirill Molodtsov said at the National Oil and Gas Forum.

"6.8 million tonnes were shipped in the first quarter, and we expect an increase for the year," Molodtsov said. He said shipments totaled 26.7 million tonnes in 2015, 17% more than in 2014.

Molodtsov also said that the Russian side has completed the expansion of the Skovorodino-Mohe pipeline branch from the Eastern Siberia - Pacific Ocean oil pipeline.

"I'm confident that our Chinese partners will carry out their part in the next year and shipments will increase," he said.