U.S. Crude Exports Decline As Markets Shift

Energy shifts influence diesel and fertilizer costs.

Aerial view of the front of a large crude oil tanker ship at sea_Photo by teamjackson via Adobe Stock_1536993330.jpg

Photo by teamjackson via Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Annual U.S. crude oil exports fell in 2025 for the first time since 2021, reflecting shifting global demand patterns and changes in domestic utilization, according to the Energy Information Administration.

U.S. crude exports averaged about 4.0 million barrels per day in 2025, down 3 percent from 2024, with declines concentrated in Europe and the Asia-Oceania region. Exports to Europe dropped about 7 percent as increased OPEC output displaced U.S. barrels, while shipments to Singapore and China fell sharply, continuing a two-year slide in Chinese purchases.

Despite lower exports, overall U.S. net crude imports declined to roughly 2.2 million barrels per day, with imports falling even more. EIA notes domestic production rose 3 percent to a record 13.6 million barrels per day, with more supply flowing into stock builds, including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and U.S. refineries.

Regionally, some destinations increased purchases, with the Netherlands, India, and Japan importing more U.S. crude and Nigeria boosting imports as its Dangote refinery ramped toward full capacity.

Looking ahead, export trends will depend on shifts in global supply, refinery demand, and evolving trade flows.

Related Stories
Livestock Conservancy Senior Program Manager Jeannette Beranger explains the upcoming poultry census and ongoing efforts to preserve rare and heritage poultry breeds raised across the U.S.
Nitrogen and phosphate markets are tightening ahead of spring, keeping fertilizer costs elevated while crop prices lag.
In the U.S. and Canada, reduced planted acres—not yield losses—led to a decline in potato production, while Mexico saw modest gains due to increased yields and harvested areas.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney talks about the U.S. House’s latest vote to roll back tariffs on Canada and the ongoing discussions surrounding North American trade.
Alaska Congressman discusses his new role as Executive Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus and his priorities for the West in the 119th Congress.
AFBF Economist Samantha Ayoub discusses the latest data on Chapter 12 farm bankruptcy filings and what the troubling trend signals for the farm economy. At the same time, bigger loans and higher rates are squeezing working capital and increasing financial risk.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.
Bankruptcy filings reflect prolonged margin pressure, rising debt, and limited financial flexibility across farm country. Bigger operating loans are helping farms manage costs, but they also signal growing reliance on borrowed capital.
Lower freight costs helped sustain export demand amid a challenging pricing environment.
Producers across the country spent the week balancing spring planning with tight margins and uneven moisture outlooks. Input purchasing stayed cautious, while marketing and cash-flow decisions remained front and center for many operations.
Income support helps, but farm finances remain tight heading into 2026.
Federal assistance has helped, but the most recent row-crop losses remain on producers’ balance sheets.