Kathmandu. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East have had a major impact on global energy markets. Kuwait, a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), did not export a barrel of crude oil in April 2026. This is the first time in more than 30 years that Kuwait has not exported crude oil.
Tanker Trackers, a website that tracks ship’s movements, posted on social media platform X: “Barrel crude oil exports from Kuwait in April 2026 have reached zero.” This is the first time since the end of the first Gulf War. ’
The ban on Kuwait’s oil exports could be a major blow to the energy markets of Asia and Europe. If this situation continues for a long time, fuel prices could rise globally.
Crude oil exports stopped completely
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Kuwait is still producing oil but exports have completely stopped. Part of the extracted oil is being sent to storage, while the rest is being converted into refined products. While some of these refined products have been exported, crude oil exports have come to a complete halt.
Kuwait has been unable to export crude oil due to the current situation and restrictions on shipping routes. The sanctions on the Strait of Hormuz, considered the lifeline of global energy supplies, have severely affected oil supply chains.
World Energy and Food Supply in Danger
Qatar has urged Iran to abide by international law and ease tensions in the region, amid growing negative trade and economic losses. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani has warned that shutting down Hormuz or using it as a bargaining chip would be dangerous for global energy and food supplies.
Meanwhile, the US Navy has increased its activities in the Middle East. According to US Central Command, 48 ships have been diverted to the Persian Gulf in the past 20 days. –Agency
