Energy market in China

China's energy sector is enormous, with a total consumption of 5.72 billion tons of standard coal in 2023. Coal counts for 55.3% of China's primary energy mix but the share of renewable energy and natural gas is rising.

China has relied on imported crude oil and gas for many years. Energy security continues to be a key focus of China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25). Domestic production is growing annually due to increasing expenditure towards exploration and production (E&P).

Key opportunities for Canadian energy companies in China

Energy Products: While Canadian energy products are currently being shipped to China, but there is still significant growth potential.

Shale and unconventional reservoirs: Local players have indicated that foreign solutions are being sought in the following areas: experience and expertise related to horizontal drilling and ultra-deep wells, fracking technology, high sealing performance and corrosion resistance for high hydrogen sulfide gas, and chemistry additives.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell (HFC): China is the largest producer and user of hydrogen in the world and is the world's largest HFC market.

Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS): It is well acknowledged that CCUS will become indispensable for China to achieve carbon neutrality goals.

Renewable Energy and Energy Storage: China's renewable energy development is expected to be large-scale and market-oriented, reducing reliance on government incentives.

Environmental protection: In addition to water, air and soil protection, solid waste and hazardous waste treatment will also be the government priority.

Notable challenges for Canadian energy companies in China

• Local context: China's culture and business practices differ from Canada's. Understanding Chinese business etiquette and local customs, as well as finding a capable and reliable partner, are important to achieve success in China.
• Intellectual property (IP): Every firm should implement a strategy to protect their intellectual property rights in China. This starts with registering IP such as patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
• Due diligence: For Canadian companies looking to do business in China, no matter the business model, whether through trading, investment or joint research, the key is to find the right partner. Due diligence is a prerequisite for any transaction with Chinese parties.
• Travel: A lack of direct and low frequency of flights between Canada and China means higher than normal travel expense and effort, limiting business change efficiency this year.

Upcoming projects and events

• The 5th Canada China LNG Forum and Roadshow, Guangdong & Zhejiang/Shandong, Sept 2024
• Responsible Business Conduct Roundtable for Extractive Sector, Beijing, Oct/Nov 2024
• The Cleantech in Oil and Gas Seminar, Shandong, Nov/Dec 2024
• China International Petroleum and Petrochemical Technology and Equipment Exhibition (CIPPE), Beijing, Mar 2025
• 29th World Gas Conference (WGC), Beijing, May 19 to 23, 2025

Summary

Energy security, energy transition and how realistic it is to reach net-zero goals continue to be hot topics among the industry players in China. Foreign products and services that can help local industry reach the dual carbon target have exciting potential in China. Many Canadian equipment and services companies are already having success in the market, but there is significant potential for growth.

For more information on energy sector in the Chinese market please contact bejingtdinfocentre@international.gc.ca.