Opec to extend, tight oil to grow
The group is expected to extend its cuts deal. But global supply could still surge
Opec is almost certain to extend its cuts for the second half of 2017 when it meets on 25 May in Vienna. The group's most powerful member, Saudi Arabia, has signalled to the market to expect a rollover. Its neighbours in the Gulf, including Iraq, say they are on board. Venezuela is desperate for higher prices. "The deal is 99% done," one insider told Petroleum Economist recently. Oil prices haven't risen as high as most members would like, but they're well above the level they would have reached without a deal, and all members fear a sell-off if an extension isn't agreed later this month. Opec thinks one more heave will be enough to help the market turn a corner in the second half of the yea
Also in this section
11 March 2026
Missiles over Dubai and disruption in Hormuz are testing the emirate’s reputation—and shaking the energy hub at the centre of the Gulf economy
11 March 2026
De la Rey Venter, CEO of LNG player MidOcean Energy, discusses strategy, project developments and the prospects for the LNG market
10 March 2026
From Venezuela to Hormuz, the US—backed by the most powerful military force ever assembled—is redrawing not only oil and gas flows but also the global balance of energy power
10 March 2026
By shutting the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has cut exports of distillate-rich Middle Eastern crude, jet fuel and diesel, and is holding the energy market hostage






