The Maritime Executive | China Surpasses US as Largest Crude Oil Importer The Maritime Executive China surpassed the U.S. in annual gross crude oil imports in 2017 by importing 8.4 million barrels per day (b/d) compared with 7.9 million b/d of U.S. crude oil imports. China had become the world's largest net importer (imports less exports) of total ... Oil boom gives US new edge in energy and diplomacy |