Qatar’s Opec exit a sign of rising intra-Gulf tensions
The Gulf state’s departure will not damage Opec’s operations, but will cement intra-Gulf divisions
On the global energy stage, Qatar is a natural gas mega-performer, but plays only a small part in oil production. Its approximately 600,000 b/d of output represents no more than 2pc of total Opec production. Qatar appears to recognise that Opec's role has diminished over the past two years, with the initiative on global oil price strategy being dictated by two giant producers: Saudi Arabia and Russia. Even though Russia is not part of Opec, its voice is one that the organisation can no longer ignore. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said in October that cooperation with Russia would intensify in the months ahead, allowing the two states to "establish the framework of long-term coordinat
Also in this section
9 January 2026
OPEC+ remains on track as output falls, with only Gabon failing to hit its output targets in December, although Kazakhstan’s compliance was involuntary
9 January 2026
The Latin American producer’s crude prospects rely on a multi-pronged approach where even the relatively easy wins will take considerable time, effort and cost
9 January 2026
While many forecasters are reasserting the importance of oil and gas, petrostates should be under no illusion things are changing, and faster than they might think
8 January 2026
Indonesia and Malaysia are at the dawn of breathtaking digital capabilities. Their energy infrastructure must keep up with their ambitions
