OPEC+ Set to Resume Oil Output Increases from April: What This Means for Investors and Businesses in Oman
MOSCOW/LONDON — OPEC+ is showing a tendency to resume increasing oil production starting in April, according to three sources familiar with the group’s plans. This move is aimed at meeting the peak summer demand, supported by price strength driven by ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran.
The planned output increase would enable leading OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the UAE to regain market share, while other members such as Russia, Venezuela, and Iran face challenges from Western sanctions. Additionally, Kazakhstan’s oil production has been limited by a series of setbacks.
The group’s eight key producers are scheduled to meet on March 1. Previously, these members agreed to raise production quotas by about 2.9 million barrels per day from April through December 2025, which represents approximately 3% of global demand. They have also paused any further increases from January to March 2026 due to the typically lower seasonal consumption during that period.
Despite concerns about a potential supply glut this year, Brent crude prices remain near $68 per barrel, close to a six-month peak of $71.89 recorded in January amid US-Iran tensions.
All three sources, who requested anonymity, said the producers are inclined to recommence quota increases from April, with three additional insiders sharing this expectation. However, no final decision has been made, and discussions will continue leading up to the March 1 meeting.
Requests for comment from OPEC officials and authorities in Russia and Saudi Arabia were not immediately answered.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
OPEC+ leaning towards increased oil production from April signals potential stabilization of global oil prices amid geopolitical tensions and supply challenges. For Oman businesses, this means opportunities to capitalize on steadier oil revenues while navigating the risks of fluctuating demand and geopolitical uncertainty. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should monitor OPEC+ decisions closely, positioning themselves to leverage market share shifts and energy sector dynamics in the coming months.
