Portuguese 
In the first two weeks of September, Brazil exported 5.25 million tons of oil, averaging 656.2 thousand tons per day, a 75.6% increase compared to the previous year, following record national production.
Brazil’s oil exports picked up significantly at the start of September 2026. In just two weeks, the country shipped 5.25 million tons of crude oil, which is equivalent to an average of 656.2 thousand tons per working day, according to data from the Department of Foreign Trade compiled by Reuters.
Compared to the daily pace of September 2025, this represents an increase of 75.6%. The jump occurred after Brazilian oil production hit a record high in July for the second consecutive month, boosting the availability of oil for export at a time of rising external demand.
Brazil shipped 5.25 million tons abroad in two weeks
The figure is impressive given the short timeframe. With 5.25 million tons exported in the first two weeks of the month, the daily average reached 656.2 thousand tons. If maintained, this pace would place September among the strongest months of the year for oil trade.
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The preliminary results may still change until the end of the month. Shipments of crude oil depend on vessel schedules, terminal operations, load availability, and commercial conditions, resulting in considerable fluctuations from week to week.
Record production increased the available supply for export
The increase in shipments comes after new production records in the country. The pre-salt formations continue to be the main driver, with large offshore units increasing supply from the Santos and Campos basins and allowing Brazil to consolidate oil as one of its most significant export items.
The higher the production above the needs of domestic refineries, the greater the volume that tends to be allocated to the external market. The profile of Brazilian oil, especially low-sulfur loads produced in the pre-salt area, also found consistent demand in refineries around the world.
September revenue also accelerated in the preliminary balance
Preliminary data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services shows a strong increase in the value of exported crude oil in September. The results in dollars reflect both the greater quantity exported and current price conditions in the international market.
However, quantity and revenue measure different things. The growth of 75.6% mentioned for the first two weeks refers to the physical pace of shipments in tons, while the financial value can also vary with the average price of each load and currency exchange rates.
Oil has gained decisive weight in Brazil’s trade balance
Crude oil has begun to vie for top positions among Brazil’s exported products. The combination of large pre-salt reserves, high productivity, and the expansion of platforms has transformed the sector into a significant source of dollars and commercial surplus.
In August 2026, prior to the acceleration observed in September, the country had already exported approximately 8.4 million tons of crude oil, according to consolidated foreign trade data. The value of these sales approached US$ 4.83 billion.
Tankers Connect Offshore Production to Foreign Refineries
Much of the oil produced offshore is transported to terminals and ships capable of carrying hundreds of thousands or millions of barrels. The logistics rely on FPSOs, pipelines, support vessels, terminals, and tankers, forming a chain that extends from the well to the international buyer.
The growth in exports also increases the importance of ports, terminals, and storage capacity. Logistical bottlenecks can limit the speed of shipments even when production is sufficient, while new infrastructures help sustain larger volumes.
China and Other Large Buyers Remain Strategic
China remains one of the top destinations for Brazilian oil, but the country also ships cargo to Europe, the United States, and other markets. Diversifying buyers reduces dependence on a single destination and allows for capitalizing on price differences between regions.
Brazil’s competitiveness also depends on freight rates, oil quality, distance to refineries, and global market conditions. Geopolitical changes, sanctions, wars, and decisions by OPEC+ can rapidly alter the value and route of shipments.
September Could Consolidate a New Level for Brazilian Oil
The 5.25 million tons shipped in two weeks demonstrate how the expansion of the pre-salt is translating into foreign trade. The monthly closure will indicate whether the pace of 75.6% above last year will be maintained or moderated by the final weeks of September.
Even before the final results, the combination of record production and accelerated shipments confirms the growing weight of oil in the Brazilian economy. Do you believe the country should further increase production for export or channel a larger portion for domestic refining? Share your thoughts in the comments.
