This Country, Not An Arab Nation, Tops The World In Crude Oil Production

Last Updated:June 23, 2025, 14:40 IST

The top 10 crude oil producing countries generate 100 million barrels daily. Each barrel holds 159 litres of oil, highlighting the vast scale of global energy production

Iran's threat to close key oil route has sparked global energy security concerns. (Representative/News18 Tamil)

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East and growing US pressure on Iran, the decades-long stability of the Strait of Hormuz—a vital artery for global oil shipments—is under threat. With Iran hinting at the possibility of shutting down the crucial waterway, concerns over global energy security are mounting. In this backdrop, understanding which country leads global crude oil production has never been more relevant.

Despite the growing popularity of electric scooters and cars, global demand for crude oil and its derivatives—such as petrol, diesel, and kerosene—continues to rise steadily. Crude oil remains a vital resource, not only for fueling vehicles but also for essential daily needs like cooking, heating, and powering industries, underscoring its continued importance in the global economy.

While many associate crude oil production with the Middle East, 2023 data shows that the United States leads the world in crude oil output, producing 21.9 million barrels per day. Saudi Arabia ranks second with a daily production of 11.1 million barrels.

Russia ranks third with a daily production of 10.7 million barrels, while Canada holds fourth place at 5.7 million barrels per day. China is in fifth place and Iraq in sixth. Brazil follows in seventh place, with the United Arab Emirates in eighth.

Iran and Kuwait complete the top ten list, ranking ninth and tenth respectively. Collectively, these top 10 crude oil producing countries generate 100 million barrels per day. It is worth noting that each barrel of crude oil contains 159 litres of oil.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route between the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, remains the world’s most important oil transit point—carrying nearly 20 million barrels of crude daily, or about 20% of global supply. Of the 5.5 million barrels India imports each day, approximately 1.5 million pass through this route.

While the escalating tension in the Middle East has raised global concerns, the Indian government is currently maintaining a cautious stance. Officials say India has enough oil reserves to last three weeks, though rising demand could challenge that buffer.

Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that India is monitoring the situation closely. He noted that contingency plans are in place, including tapping into alternative suppliers like Russia, Qatar, and African nations to offset any disruption in oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations with these partners are already underway to ensure energy security.

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