Energy exports and US strength

The API has said that the US trade report which was released on 6 August by the US Department of Commerce illustrates that energy exports are revitalising the American economy and shifting the balance of power across the globe.

Comments from John Felmy

John Felmy, API Chief Economist commented on the report saying, ‘domestic oil and natural gas production helped drive record exports last year, and our ability to impact global markets continues to grow. But America’s potential as an energy superpower remains limited by outdated trade restrictions that prevent more US oil and natural gas from reaching global markets. Lifting these barriers will mean more jobs and a more powerful position, both economically and diplomatically.

‘Already, innovations in hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling have allowed US energy exports to put a major dent in the trade deficit. Today’s report shows that exports of crude oil and petroleum products are up more than US$ 1.2 billion from the same month last year, to US$ 12.7 billion. For the year to date, the total trade deficit for crude oil and petroleum products is down US$ 20.4 billion from the same period last year.

‘If policymakers act now to allow free trade, US energy exports can further reduce the impact of unrest overseas and limit the influence of foreign suppliers that dominate other markets. And studies show that American crude oil exports will promote higher energy production and put downward pressure on prices for consumers.

‘By acting now, we can send a major signal to world markets that competitors overseas cannot ignore. Congress and the administration must act quickly to accelerate Department of Energy approval of LNG projects and lift 70s era restrictions on crude oil exports.’

Adapted from press release by Claira Lloyd

Read the article online at: https://www.oilfieldtechnology.com/drilling-and-production/07082014/api-on-us-energy-exports-and-economy/