Today, the United States intensified its economic pressure campaign against Iran by imposing sanctions on a major Chinese independent refinery, Shandong Shengxing Chemical Co., Ltd., for purchasing over a billion dollars’ worth of Iranian crude oil.
In a press statement released Wednesday, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce announced the designation of the China-based “teapot” refinery – a term often used for smaller, independent refiners in China – citing its significant role in facilitating Iran’s illicit oil exports. The move underscores the Trump Administration’s stated commitment to driving Iran’s oil sales, particularly those destined for China, down to zero.
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“The President is committed to drive Iran’s illicit oil exports, including to China, to zero,” the statement declared.
Alongside Shandong Shengxing Chemical, several unnamed companies and vessels allegedly involved in transporting Iranian oil to China as part of Iran’s “shadow” fleet were also sanctioned. This network is believed to help Tehran circumvent existing international sanctions.
Today’s action marks the second time the U.S. has targeted an independent Chinese teapot refinery since President Trump issued National Security Presidential Memorandum 2 on February 4, 2025, aimed at further restricting Iranian oil revenue. It represents the sixth round of sanctions focused on Iranian oil sales implemented under that directive.
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The sanctions are being imposed pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13902, which specifically targets Iran’s petroleum and petrochemical industries. The administration affirmed that all sanctions under its “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran will be fully enforced.
“As long as Iran attempts to generate oil revenues to fund its destabilizing activities, the United States will hold both Iran and all its partners in sanctions evasion accountable,” the press statement warned.
The move signals the administration’s continued focus on disrupting financial lifelines to Tehran, aiming to curb activities the U.S. deems destabilizing in the region.
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