(Le Figaro, Armelle Bohineust, May 5, 2026)
China is skillfully leveraging the conflict in Iran to strengthen its geopolitical and economic position: thanks to huge strategic reserves of oil and raw materials, it manages to cushion the blow of high prices, while appearing as a reliable and stable partner for Global South countries, consolidating trade and political ties and accelerating the de-dollarization of exchanges through the yuan.
Beijing capitalizes on American instability to present itself as a responsible power, mediating between parties and strengthening its influence in the Gulf, where Chinese companies will be favored in post-conflict reconstruction; at the same time, the crisis accelerates the global energy transition, of which China is the undisputed leader with its exports of electric vehicles, batteries, and solar panels that are booming especially in Europe.
Despite being exposed to the Hormuz blockade, China remains more resilient than Western economies thanks to 85% energy self-sufficiency, alternative suppliers such as Russia, and strategic reserves, while gaining valuable military intelligence by observing US operations and strengthening its diplomatic weight without firing a shot, preparing for the post-crisis world.
Strategic reserves as a shield
“China is certainly hit by the surge in oil prices, but its vast strategic reserves of petroleum products and other vital raw materials allow it to mitigate the shock.”
Stable partner for the Global South
“The conflict strengthens its trade ties with the ‘Global South,’ the country appears as a stable partner. The yuan’s weight in trade is increasing.”
Green export boom
“The enthusiasm for alternatives to hydrocarbons favors its exports of electric vehicles and solar panels. Chinese brands (BYD, MG…) are gaining ground in Europe.”
Beijing as a responsible mediator
“Cautious in its support for Tehran, it avoids direct confrontation with Washington. It positions itself as a mediator with Pakistan, promoting ceasefire initiatives.”
A free lesson on modern warfare
“The war in Iran offers China a ‘free lesson’ on how the United States conducts modern warfare […] and strengthens its influence in various ways.”
(Excerpt from the newsletter by Giuseppe Liturri)
