Oil prices were higher today in a choppy session. China’s gross domestic product expanded by 3% in 2022, missing the official target of “around 5.5%” and marking the second-worst performance since 1976 but the data still beat analysts’ forecasts after China rolled back its zero-COVID policy in December. However, data released today showed refinery output in China was lower than expected. “The country’s crude oil imports were up 4% in December and a considerable demand boost for transportation fuel … is anticipated when the Lunar New Year begins on Sunday,” said PVM analyst Tamas Varga. Oil was also bolstered today by a weaker USD. WTI traded up $.32 or .4% to close at $80.18. Brent traded up $1.46 or 1.7% to close at $85.92.