MUSCAT: Preliminary data from the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicate that Oman’s fuel production recorded notable variations, with gasoline and diesel experiencing strong gains, while jet fuel and LPG output declined. Automotive fuels demonstrated a remarkable 20 percent overall increase, reflecting growing domestic demand and strategic production adjustments. Regular gasoline “91” production rose 8.3 percent to 10.09 million barrels, accompanied by a modest 2 percent rise in sales, although exports declined 14.7 percent. Premium gasoline “95” production climbed 4.7 percent to 7.81 million barrels, supported by a slight 1.2 percent sales increase and a significant 50.8 percent jump in exports, highlighting the product’s strong international demand.
Diesel production showed steady growth, advancing 3.3 percent to 19.38 million barrels, backed by a 6 percent rise in domestic sales, while exports fell marginally by 2.6 percent. In contrast, jet fuel production dropped sharply by 14.2 percent to 5.89 million barrels, with both sales and exports down by 6.1 percent and 21.2 percent, respectively, reflecting weaker airline activity and lower international demand. LPG output experienced a slight decline of 0.3 percent, yet local sales surged 22.4 percent, demonstrating strong domestic consumption, while exports plunged 60.9 percent, highlighting challenges in the external market.
Other petroleum products also showed dynamic shifts, with gasoline output increasing 2.6 percent and paraxylene production growing 3.8 percent. Polypropylene stood out with a remarkable 63.7 percent rise to 200,800 metric tons, though domestic sales decreased 10.3 percent. Exports were robust for paraxylene and polypropylene, recording growth of 17.7 percent and 58.9 percent, respectively, while gasoline exports experienced a minor decline of 0.8 percent. These figures underline the importance of strategic product allocation between domestic use and international markets to optimize revenue streams.
Overall, the mixed trends in Oman’s fuel production and sales reflect shifting domestic and global energy demands, balancing supply with market consumption and export opportunities. Strong growth in gasoline and diesel supports domestic transportation needs and economic activity, while declining jet fuel and LPG output signal the influence of international and local market dynamics. Analysts suggest that continued monitoring and strategic adjustments will be essential to maintain stability in both domestic supply and export performance, ensuring the energy sector continues contributing effectively to Oman’s broader economic growth and diversification goals.
