Iran’s crude oil and condensate exports have reached a new high over the past 12 months despite the imposition of 14 U.S. sanction packages totalling 465 measures, including the toughest oil-related restrictions since 2018. According to the Iranian Oil Ministry’s news service, oil exports remain a critical driver of the economy, accounting for 30 to 40 per cent of government revenue and supporting infrastructure, industrial development, and social programs, while also serving as a key instrument of energy diplomacy.
Independent trackers confirmed the increase. Data from Kpler showed shipments to China reached 1.81 million barrels per day in March, 22 per cent higher than the 2024 average. The International Energy Agency reported exports averaging nearly 1.7 million barrels per day in the first half of 2025, while Vortexa recorded a peak of 1.8 million barrels per day in late June, coinciding with 12 days of armed conflict involving Iran. Officials attributed the rise to the resilience of the oil sector workforce and adaptive strategies under pressure. Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad said in February that the industry continues to respond with increasingly sophisticated measures to counter tightening restrictions.
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