Chinese biodiesel imports soar on tax incentives

In China, new tax incentives have boosted demand for biodiesel imports to the tune of up to 300,000 metric tons per month, compared to just 500,000 tons between January and June. Though diesel imports are strictly controlled, biodiesel imports—or petroleum blended with at least 30% biodiesel—is open to far more than just the national oil companies licensed to import diesel. Quality concerns abound, while there is talk that increased biodiesel use could mean more fossil diesel exports.