Running Out Of Options

18 September 2026: Exports from the largest Middle East producer are restricted. Saudi Arabia has traditionally been the beacon of stability within OPEC.  It is the Middle East’s largest producer, reliably supplying markets in Asia and Europe through long-term contracts.  Unlike most OPEC members and other oil producers, Saudi Arabia would maintain significant spare production capacity.  This enabled the leaders in Riyadh to manage global oil markets as its main “swing producer”.  Saudi Arabia’s size, reserves and political stability made it the natural leader of the OPEC cartel.  However, much has changed in recent months.  The Kingdom has entered a severe geopolitical and economic crisis as a result of the U.S. war against Iran and the closure of critical oil export infrastructure.  In this Tanker Opinion, we’ll discuss recent events and the impact they have on the tanker market. Please fill out the form to read the article.