President Donald Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping likes the idea of buying more U.S. oil during an interview on Thursday night [1, 2].
The statement suggests a potential shift in energy trade dynamics between the world's two largest economies. Increasing U.S. oil exports to China could reduce trade deficits and strengthen the domestic energy sector.
Trump said the detail during a conversation with Fox News host Sean Hannity [1, 2]. The discussion focused on potential energy trade and the strategic interests of both nations in the global oil market.
"Xi likes the idea of buying more U.S. oil," Trump said during the interview [2].
Hannity said the point during the broadcast, noting that President Trump says Xi is interested in U.S. oil [1]. The interview occurred on May 15, 2026, as the administration continues to navigate economic relations with Beijing.
Trade in energy remains a central pillar of U.S.-China relations. By leveraging energy exports, the U.S. aims to create more balanced trade agreements, a recurring theme in Trump's economic policy.
Neither the Chinese government nor official diplomatic channels have released a formal statement confirming these specific discussions. The claim relies on the account provided by the president during the media appearance.
“"Xi likes the idea of buying more U.S. oil,"”
This development indicates a strategic attempt by the U.S. administration to use energy commodities as a diplomatic and economic lever. If China increases its intake of U.S. oil, it could signal a pivot away from other global suppliers and a willingness to engage in a more transactional relationship to ease trade tensions.
