Feature Articles

World Oil Transit Chokepoints

with updated data on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz

Release Date: December 30, 2011

World oil transit chokepoints are a critical part of global energy security. About half of the world's oil production moves on maritime routes.

The Return of Libya

Release Date: December 7, 2011

The pace of Libya's reentry into world oil markets has exceeded our prior expectations and those of many other outside observers. While opinions vary significantly on the eventual trajectory for Libyan oil production, nearly all forecasts have steadily shifted upwards as the country's oil sector and related institutions continue to progress.

Libya resumes natural gas exports to Italy

Release Date: October 20, 2011

On October 13, 2011, Libya resumed natural gas exports to Italy via the 340-mile, Greenstream Pipeline (Greenstream), which is jointly owned by the Eni S.p.A. and the National Oil Company of Libya. Natural gas delivery imports to Sicily, Italy, at the Gela receipt point, are now about 150 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d).

Natural gas production in Middle Eastern and North African countries

Release Date: March 29, 2011

In 2009, Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries produced about 55 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of dry natural gas, or about one-fifth of the estimated total worldwide daily supply and just under the average daily U.S. dry natural gas production of about 56 Bcf/d for the corresponding year.

Liquid fuels production in Middle Eastern and North African countries

Release Date: March 28, 2011

In 2010, Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries supplied about 30 million barrels per day (mmb/d) of liquid fuels in 2010, or more than one-third of the estimated total worldwide daily supply of 86.3 mmb/d.