The US campaign to increase economic pressure on Iran could face limits in China, Tehran’s biggest trading partner and a major buyer of Iranian oil. The issue comes as US President Donald Trump prepares for a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping next month.
Washington has announced new sanctions targeting Iran-linked entities, but has so far avoided aggressive measures against major Chinese companies and banks. Analysts say tougher action against Beijing could risk disrupting the fragile US-China trade truce before the leaders’ summit.
China has defended its economic cooperation with Iran, saying its activities comply with international law. Beijing has also opposed what it calls unilateral sanctions and warned that it will protect its economic interests.
China receives a significant share of Iran’s oil exports, often through indirect channels. Analysts say Beijing could reduce some Iranian oil purchases or take limited steps to cooperate with Washington, but is unlikely to completely sever its relationship with Tehran.
The Trump administration recently sanctioned dozens of Iran-linked entities accused of supporting oil shipments, missile and nuclear programmes and other activities. Some targets were based in mainland China and Hong Kong, including entities linked to Iranian oil transportation.
Experts believe Washington is unlikely to significantly escalate pressure on China before Trump’s planned meeting with Xi. Both governments have an interest in avoiding a new confrontation that could threaten trade and broader economic ties.
The situation leaves Washington balancing two objectives: increasing pressure on Iran while preventing the campaign from triggering a major dispute with Beijing ahead of the summit.
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