Saudi Oil Exports Surge Amid Ongoing Disruptions Through Hormuz

Crude oil exports from the Middle East rose to their highest level in September since Iran's war began seven months ago. According to preliminary data from Kpler, regional exports reached 16.3 million barrels per day, surpassing August's 2.45 million barrels per day exported by Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia accounted for much of the increase, with exports doubling to around 5.4 million barrels per day in September. Flows through the Strait of Hormuz were projected to reach about 9.7 million barrels per day as Saudi Arabia sent additional crude from its Gulf terminals after attacks damaged its East-West pipeline.

The regional total also includes oil shipped from ports outside the strait, but normal exports have not yet resumed due to ongoing disruptions in traffic through Hormuz.