BEIJING - China's commercial crude oil stocks increased 2.38 percent in September over August, while stocks of refined oil products went down 7.46 percent, according to data monitored by Xinhua News Agency.

Last month, China imported 27.9 million tons of crude oil, while producing 17.74 million tons.

Gasoline stocks increased 2.47 percent as the economic headwinds and higher fuel prices combined to constrain consumption. Diesel stocks dropped 15.68 percent due to strong rural demand as harvest season nears, according to the report.

The stocks of kerosene gained 6.3 percent as air traffic retreated following the summer holiday travelling peak.