How successful has OPEC+'s oil output policy been in 2025?
Summary
OPEC+ members, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, increased oil production by 2.9 million barrels per day in 2025 despite market uncertainties, balancing supply growth with geopolitical and economic factors to maintain stable crude prices.
Key Points
- Since April 2025, eight key OPEC+ members increased oil production by around 2.9 million barrels per day to regain market share.
- Geopolitical factors like the Iran-Israel war, US sanctions on Russia, and China's strategic oil reserve build-up supported demand, offsetting the supply glut effect.
- Donald Trump's return as US president influenced OPEC+'s output hikes, with Saudi Arabia accommodating US interests to stabilize prices around $60-$65 per barrel.
- OPEC+ plans a production pause in Q1 2026 due to seasonal demand decline and ongoing geopolitical negotiations surrounding the Ukraine war.
