U.S. total motor gasoline exports down slightly from last year but still at high levels

In November 2010, U.S. exports of total motor gasoline exceeded 400 thousand barrels per day (bbl/d) for the first month since 1945 and have mostly remained above that level through May of this year. Exports from January through May 2012, which averaged about 446 thousand bbl/d, were down about 53 thousand bbl/d compared with the same period last year but were still near historically high levels. Most of the exports went to Mexico and countries in Central and South America.

After declining slightly from 2005 to 2007, total monthly U.S. motor gasoline exports increased from 2007 to 2011, reaching an annual average record of 526 thousand bbl/d last year. Average daily exports of total motor gasoline rose 380 thousand bbl/d between 2007 and 2011, with exports to Mexico accounting for 57% of the overall growth in total motor gasoline exports.

Falling domestic motor gasoline consumption has created opportunities for higher exports. The Gulf Coast accounts for most U.S. motor gasoline and distillate exports because of higher production levels, access to ports, and proximity to export markets. Lower domestic demand and excess regional refinery capacity have supported growth in U.S. gasoline and distillate exports.