IEA says global oil market remains well supplied

The International Energy Agency (IEA) is in regular contact with authorities in Saudi Arabia and other major producing and consuming countries, as well as industry, following Saturday’s attacks on Aramco facilities.

The energy watchdog said in a statement that it remains committed to ensure that global oil markets remain well supplied.

“As ever, we are ready to take rapid action in the event of any sustained shortfalls,” the statement said.

IEA also noted that for now, markets remain well supplied with ample stocks available as member countries hold about 1.55 billion barrels of emergency stocks in government-controlled agencies, which amount to 15 days of total world oil demand.

“These can be drawn upon in an emergency collective action and would be more than enough to offset any significant disruption in supplies for an extended period of time,” IEA stated.

In addition, IEA member countries also hold 2.9 billion barrels of industry stocks as of the end of July, a two-year high that can cover more than a month of world oil demand.

These stocks include about 650 million barrels of obligated emergency stocks, which can be made immediately available to the market when governments lower their holding requirements.

Taken together, these emergency reserves can bring ample additional supply to the global market if needed, according to IEA.

“Recent events are a reminder that oil security cannot be taken for granted, even at times when markets are well supplied, and that energy security remains an indispensable pillar of the global economy,” Dr Fatih Birol, the IEA’s Executive Director, said.