Iran Ramps Up Oil Exports In A Month Of War

• 30.03.2026, 17:56

At the same time, it restricted competitors in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has dramatically increased its oil exports during the war in the Middle East while effectively limiting the passage of other suppliers through the Strait of Hormuz, writes Bloomberg based on ship-tracking data.

The total number of ships passing through the strait fell sharply in March, from about 135 a day to fewer than six. At the same time, most of the tankers that do take oil out of the Persian Gulf are linked to Iran or its partners.

Despite the bombing by the US and Israel, Iran has even increased production and exports: to an average of 1.8 million barrels per day, more than last year. Additionally, the easing of U.S. sanctions has also had an impact, thanks to which Iranian oil continues to be supplied, mainly to China.

The war has also led to a sharp rise in global oil prices: the Brent brand has risen in price by almost 60% since the beginning of March. As a result, Iran has significantly increased its revenues to about $139 million a day.

In addition, Iran has increased its control over the strait and has begun demanding payment and information about cargo and crew from some ships. It is even considering introducing an official law obliging all ships to pay for passage.

So, against the backdrop of the conflict, Iran has not only maintained but also strengthened its position in the oil market, becoming one of the main economic beneficiaries of the situation.