Middle East crude oil prices ride high on strong Asian demand

U.S. sanctions on Russia spur China, India to boost imports from Saudi Arabia

20250219N saudi aramco oilfield REU

Saudi Aramco raised the adjustment fee added to Asia-bound crude oil for March shipments by the most in about three years. (Saudi Aramco via Reuters)

YUSEI SANADA

TOKYO -- Middle Eastern crude oil prices have soared this year with China and India increasing demand from the region as an alternative to Russian oil, which is subject to U.S.-led sanctions stemming from Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Dubai crude from the Middle East is commonly traded in Asia, North Sea Brent crude is common in Europe and West Texas Intermediate crude is common in the U.S. In addition to differences in sulfur content and viscosity, prices are determined by supply and demand in each region.

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