California Fuel Imports Reach Four-Year High Amid Refinery Outages

California has experienced a significant surge in fuel imports, reaching the highest levels in four years due to refinery outages and upcoming refinery closures by Phillips 66 and Valero. This escalation marks a growing dependency on international suppliers, particularly from Asia and the Bahamas, as the state's refining capacity declines faster than its fuel demand. Analysts warn that California is moving toward a long-term import-dependent position, which is further complicated by rising fuel prices in the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, these developments coincide with ongoing domestic strains, including protests against President Donald Trump's immigration policies in Los Angeles and criticism of Southern California Edison's wildfire forecast inaccuracies. The fuel import increase underscores the challenges California faces amid regulatory pressures, environmental hazards, and socio-political unrest.