China to dominate global energy demand

As the superpower spat continues, can the US close the trade deficit by targeting China's booming energy needs?

For oil and gas investors, there is plenty to ponder as we enter 2019, which looks a much tougher year for the industry. Opec policy and Iran are some of the obvious, but the biggest strategic question is the outcome from US-China trade negotiations. Combined, both countries account for 40pc of global energy consumption and GDP. An ugly trade spat could sharply slow global growth with negative repercussions for oil demand and oil prices. On the other hand, a rapprochement between both superpowers could unlock a new phase of energy co-operation. While the latter seems less likely, the outcome of US-China trade negotiations will have a significant impact on global energy demand and energy trad