Saudi Arabia Resumes Crude Loadings at Major Terminal After Four-Month Halt

Key Facts

After a nearly four-month halt, Saudi Arabia is resuming crude loadings at a major Gulf terminal, removing a layer of uncertainty around global oil supply. Two supertankers began loading crude Thursday at the Aramco-operated terminal (2222.SR), according to reports from the Wall Street Journal. Data from Kpler indicates a third tanker may also be preparing to load.

The resumption comes after a halt that raised questions about Saudi supply, especially given regional geopolitical tensions. The development unfolds with Brent crude closing at $75.26 a barrel on June 25, according to market data, while Aramco shares traded at a low of 26.14 riyals the same day. The return of supply could ease upward pressure on prices, though the actual impact depends on the pace of loadings.

Traders are monitoring loading developments in the coming days, as the pace of cargo resumption could impact crude prices. Per market data, Brent crude traded in a range of $90.67 to $92.70 in the last session, providing immediate support and resistance levels. Markets are also watching Aramco’s guidance on future shipments, with any further delays potentially affecting sentiment.