Which five Chinese refineries did China's Ministry of Commerce block U.S. sanctions against, and why were they targeted?

China's Ministry of Commerce blocked U.S. sanctions against Hengli Petrochemical (Dalian) Refinery, Shandong Jincheng Petrochemical Group, Hebei Xinhai Chemical Group, Shouguang Luqing Petrochemical, and Shandong Shengxing Chemical — all labeled as 'teapot' refineries. The U.S. Treasury sanctioned Hengli in April for allegedly buying billions of dollars worth of Iranian oil, while the Trump administration previously imposed sanctions on the other four for similar alleged dealings with Iran, as part of Washington’s broader effort to curb Tehran’s oil revenue.

What legal action did China's Ministry of Commerce take in response to the U.S. sanctions, and what does the injunction specifically prohibit?

The Ministry of Commerce issued an injunction declaring the U.S. sanctions 'in violation of international law and the basic norms of international relations' and stipulating that 'the United States cannot recognize, implement, or comply with the sanctions imposed on the aforementioned five Chinese companies.'

China's Commerce Ministry blocks US sanctions against five refineries

May 2, 2026

China's Commerce Ministry issued an injunction blocking U.S. sanctions on five Chinese refiners accused of purchasing Iranian oil. The move prevents compliance with U.S. Treasury measures targeting major petrochemical entities including Hengli Petrochemical.

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