Kuwait’s oil production capacity has climbed to 3.2 million barrels per day, the highest level in more than 10 years. Oil Minister Tariq Al-Roumi confirmed the milestone during an interview in Kuwait, noting the achievement reflects years of sustained investment and planning. The news underscores Kuwait’s growing role within OPEC+ as it works to balance market stability and domestic energy ambitions.
Officials highlighted that oil capacity levels remain a sensitive issue within OPEC+. Production quotas are set based on capacity, and several members have pushed for higher allocations. The United Arab Emirates, Iraq, and Nigeria have previously sought increases, while Angola left the group in 2024 following disputes over targets. Kuwait, however, has now positioned itself to press for a stronger role in quota discussions.
Kuwait’s capacity peaked at 3.3 million barrels per day in 2010 before falling below 3 million barrels. In January, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation confirmed output had exceeded 3 million barrels again, marking a gradual recovery. The company has outlined a long-term plan to boost capacity to 4 million barrels per day by 2035.
Al-Roumi emphasized that Kuwait’s current progress aligns with this strategy. He said the country intends to reach its new target step by step, while working with OPEC+ partners to ensure market stability. The upcoming adjustment will see Kuwait’s production rise to 2.559 million barrels per day starting in October.
OPEC+ recently agreed to increase output by 137,000 barrels per day in October, continuing its policy of gradual increases since April. Al-Roumi explained that the group retains flexibility, allowing it to pause or reverse changes depending on global conditions. He stressed that monthly meetings enable quick responses to shifting supply and demand.
Global oil demand is also showing resilience. The International Energy Agency forecasts consumption growth of 740,000 barrels per day in 2025 and another 700,000 barrels in 2026. OPEC projects even stronger demand, predicting growth of 1.3 million barrels per day this year and 1.4 million next year.
Al-Roumi expressed optimism that these trends would support balance in the oil market. He noted that crude inventories have already dropped below the five-year average, reinforcing the need for careful coordination among producers.
Market analysts view Kuwait’s capacity increase as a sign of renewed competitiveness in the Gulf’s energy sector. With infrastructure investments and strategic planning in place, Kuwait appears positioned to meet both domestic goals and international obligations in the coming decade.
