Ningbo becomes largest oil export base in China

Ningbo, one of three economic centers in Zhejiang Province, handled 2.28 million tons of crude oil and oil products exports in 2009, becoming the largest oil export base in China, according to local customs data. Ningbo’s exports include gasoline, diesel fuel and other oil products. Last year, the port began to export processed asphalt. Ningbo’s customs regulations make it a suitable place for oil export businesses to grow. In particular, Ningbo has supported the development of Zhenhai Refining and Chemical Co, a subsidiary of PetroChina, which built a base for refined oil exports there, contributing greatly to Ningbo’s total export volume. (February 4, 2010)