Weekly EIA data update

U.S. Oil Production Update — Week of August 26, 2026

United States crude oil production stands at 13.8 million barrels per day, maintaining a position near the upper range of output levels seen in recent years. This figure keeps the country among the world's leading producers and reflects continued activity across major basins including the Permian in Texas and New Mexico. The sustained volume underscores the resilience of domestic output even as operators balance capital discipline with production targets.

Production increased by 25,000 barrels per day compared to the previous week, a modest but consistent gain. Week-over-week changes of this size typically reflect incremental well completions and routine operational improvements rather than any major shift in drilling activity. While the increase is not dramatic, steady upward movement over consecutive weeks can signal broader momentum in the production trend, making it worth monitoring in the weeks ahead.

West Texas Intermediate crude is trading at $86.48 per barrel, while Brent crude sits at $95.29 per barrel. The spread between the two benchmarks currently stands at roughly $8.81, which is wider than the historical average and reflects differences in transportation costs, regional supply dynamics, and global demand signals. Brent's premium to WTI often influences export decisions, as higher international prices can make it more attractive for domestic producers to move barrels to overseas markets.

Global oil production is running at approximately 65.0 million barrels per day. Attention next week will likely focus on whether OPEC member compliance with existing output agreements holds steady and how demand signals from major consuming economies develop. Any shifts in production guidance from key exporters or notable changes in inventory data from the United States could move prices and influence the short-term outlook for both benchmarks.

Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration Weekly Petroleum Status Report. All production figures are EIA estimates subject to revision.

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