U.S. Crude Oil Exports Reach Record 5.2 Million BPD Amid Iran War

U.S. crude oil exports surged to a record 5.2 million barrels per day (bpd) in April, representing over a 30% increase from 3.9 million bpd in February. The Port of Corpus Christi became the busiest oil export terminal, handling more than 240 vessels in March, up from a typical 200. Asian buyers accounted for half of U.S. exports in April as they shifted from Middle Eastern imports due to blockades. Tankers, particularly very large crude carriers (VLCCs), have doubled in volume, with the port's capacity maxing out at approximately 2.6 million bpd due to pipeline constraints.