China to pay 56% less than other foreign buyers for Russian gas, documents show
Moscow's weakened leverage highlighted as Beijing deepens Central Asia deals
Russian government projections show China paying roughly 56 percent less than other foreign customers for Russian natural gas in 2026, according to The Moscow Times, which cited Russian Duma documentation. The reporting, carried by Eurasianet, says the steep discount reflects the Kremlin's fiscal dependence on Beijing and comes as China expands investment in mining, ports, energy and digital infrastructure across Central Asia.