Chevron Tanker Carrying Venezuelan Oil Heads to US
A tanker chartered by Chevron carrying Venezuelan crude oil has departed Venezuelan waters and is heading toward the United States Gulf Coast, according to shipping movement data. The cargo marks a resumption of shipments after a brief pause, amid heightened geopolitical and economic scrutiny around Venezuelan oil exports.
Details of the Shipment
The tanker is carrying roughly 300,000 barrels of heavy crude, a grade commonly processed by refineries along the US Gulf Coast. Chevron remains the only US oil major permitted to lift and export Venezuelan crude under a specific authorisation, even as broader restrictions continue to apply to Venezuela’s energy sector. The shipment indicates continuity of operations under existing regulatory approvals.
Pause and Broader Context
Chevron’s exports had been temporarily halted for several days before the latest departure. The pause coincided with rising tensions surrounding Venezuela and increased attention on oil flows from the country. Despite this, authorised shipments have now resumed, suggesting no immediate change in the permissions governing Chevron’s activities.
Other Venezuelan Oil Movements
In parallel, other vessels carrying Venezuelan crude and refined products have also been observed leaving ports in recent days. Some of these shipments have limited tracking visibility, making their final destinations unclear. Such movements highlight ongoing efforts to move Venezuelan oil despite restrictions and monitoring.
Impact on Energy Markets
Analysts note that Venezuelan heavy crude remains important for certain US refiners due to its compatibility with existing refinery configurations. Continued deliveries could help stabilise supply for these facilities, even as geopolitical uncertainty persists around Venezuela’s oil sector.
