What was Venezuela's crude oil export level in April, and how does it compare to recent historical levels?

Venezuela’s crude oil exports reached 1.16 million barrels a day in April, marking a seven-year high and more than double the levels seen at the end of last year; this surge follows a third consecutive month of growth and occurs less than six months after the ouster of Nicolás Maduro.

Which countries were the largest importers of Venezuelan oil in April, and what notable shift occurred in China's purchasing behavior?

Indian refiners were the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil in April, filling the void left by China, which has not purchased any Venezuelan oil cargoes since Maduro’s downfall; meanwhile, U.S. fuelmakers increased imports to nearly 407,000 barrels a day — a 16% rise from the previous month — partly due to higher Venezuelan output making its oil cheaper despite elevated global prices driven by the Iran war.

Venezuela Oil Exports Hit 1 Million Barrels a Day in Post-Maduro Era

May 1, 2026

Venezuela's crude exports surpassed 1 million barrels per day in April, a seven-year high following eased US sanctions. Major operators like Chevron and Repsol plan production increases as Indian refiners replace China as top buyers.

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