Aramco Eyes Yanbu Restart as Saudi Oil Exports Face Uncertainty

Saudi Aramco has informed at least three Asian refiners that they may soon resume crude oil loadings at the Yanbu port, which was halted after drone attacks on the East-West pipeline on September 10. The pipeline repairs could take three to five weeks, but partial operations are expected soon.

Aramco aims to restore full capacity within six weeks, which could alleviate market concerns regarding Saudi oil supply. The company's decision to reopen Yanbu port comes after it was forced to reroute shipments and cut off European loadings for October following the drone attacks.

The East-West pipeline is a crucial lifeline for Saudi oil exports, and its closure has raised concerns about the country's ability to meet global demand. However, Aramco's efforts to restore operations at Yanbu port are seen as a positive step towards addressing these concerns.