(Yicai Global) April 14 -- China's crude oil imports grew 5 percent to 130 million metric tons during the first quarter, data the General Administration of Customs released today show.

The country also raised its purchases of many other energy resources, with natural gas shipments up 1.8 percent to 24.66 million metric tons, while coal jumped 28.4 percent to 95.78 million metric tons during the period.

The nation also bought 1.3 percent more iron ore, to the tune of 260 million metric tons.

Editor: Ben Armour