Middle East oil exports rebound in September as Saudi Arabia boosts shipments
Saudi crude shipments more than doubled from August as regional oil flows recover, but exports remain below pre-conflict levels.
Middle East oil exports are showing signs of recovery in September, led by a sharp increase in Saudi Arabia’s crude shipments as producers work to restore flows disrupted by the conflict in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s crude exports are expected to average around 5.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in September, more than double the 2.45 million bpd recorded in August, according to data from energy analytics firm Kpler.
Overall exports from major Middle Eastern producers have also increased this month, helped by a partial recovery in shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes.
The rebound comes as Saudi Arabia increases shipments through its Gulf terminals and resumes some exports through its East-West pipeline after repairs, giving the kingdom more options to move crude to international markets.
Despite the improvement, regional oil exports remain well below levels seen before the conflict. Supply flows continue to face disruptions from infrastructure damage, security concerns and higher transportation costs.
The recovery in exports could ease some pressure on global oil markets, although prices remain elevated as traders continue to monitor the security of Middle Eastern supply routes and the risk of further disruptions.
