Diverging predictions on oil demand growth

Published October 13, 2023
IEA on Thursday lowered its forecast for growth in oil demand in 2024 to 880,000 barrels per day from one million bpd, while Opec stuck to its forecast that demand will rise by 2.25 million bpd.—Reuters
IEA on Thursday lowered its forecast for growth in oil demand in 2024 to 880,000 barrels per day from one million bpd, while Opec stuck to its forecast that demand will rise by 2.25 million bpd.—Reuters

LONDON: The gap between two leading oil forecasters’ views on 2024 demand growth widened on Thursday, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) predicting a sharper slowdown while producer group Opec stuck to expectations for buoyant China-led growth.

The Organisation of the Petroleum-Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the IEA, which represents industrialised countries, have clashed in recent years over issues such as the long-term oil demand outlook and the need for investment in new supplies.

In a monthly report on Thursday, the IEA lowered its forecast for growth in oil demand in 2024 to 880,000 barrels per day from 1 million bpd, suggesting harsher global economic conditions and progress on energy efficiency will weigh on consumption.

Demand destruction

The IEA said in its report it was seeing signs of demand being hit by rising prices and rising electric vehicle sales.

Crude rose close to $100 a barrel in September before falling on economic concerns, only to jump on Monday on concern the clashes between Israel and Hamas could escalate and disrupt supply.

“There has been some evidence of large-scale demand destruction, especially in lower-income countries like Nigeria, Pakistan and Egypt, and signs of accelerating declines within some OECD markets including the United States,” the IEA said.

By contrast, in its latest report, Opec stuck to its forecast that demand will rise by 2.25 million bpd in 2024. The difference between the two forecasts – 1.37 million bpd – is equivalent to more than one per cent of daily world oil use.

IEA sees consumption falling in Pakistan, Egypt and Nigeria

Oil demand growth is an indication of likely oil market strength, and can affect prices and fuel costs for consumers and businesses. It also forms part of the backdrop for supply policy decisions by Opec and its allies, known as Opec+.

“In 2024, solid global economic growth, amid continued improvements in China, is expected to further boost oil consumption,” Opec said in a monthly report.

Both forecasters are on roughly the same page for demand this year. The IEA raised its figure for this year’s growth to 2.3 million bpd, bringing it closer to Opec’s forecast of 2.44 million bpd which it left unchanged on Thursday.

Published in Dawn, October 13th, 2023

Follow Dawn Business on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business, finance and tech from Pakistan and across the world.

Opinion

Editorial

Palestine MPC
Updated 09 Oct, 2024

Palestine MPC

It's a matter of concern that PTI did not attend the Palestine MPC. Political differences should be put aside when showing solidarity with Palestine.
A welcome reform
09 Oct, 2024

A welcome reform

THE Punjab government’s decision to abolish the corruption-ridden and inefficient food department, and replace it...
Water paradox
09 Oct, 2024

Water paradox

A FULLY fledged water crisis is unfolding across the world, with 2023 recorded as the driest year for rivers in over...
Terrorism upsurge
Updated 08 Oct, 2024

Terrorism upsurge

The state cannot afford major security lapses. It may well be that the Chinese nationals were targeted to sabotage SCO event.
Ban hammer
08 Oct, 2024

Ban hammer

THE decision to ban the PTM under the Anti-Terrorism Act is yet another ill-advised move by the state. Although the...
Water tensions
08 Oct, 2024

Water tensions

THE unresolved tensions over Indus water distribution under the 1991 Water Apportionment Accord demand a revision of...