Asia is one of the most resource-rich continents in the world, and when it comes to petroleum resources, the region plays a central role in global energy production. Oil is not only a critical driver of industrial development but also an important source of revenue for many Asian countries. The major oil producing countries in Asia collectively supply millions of barrels per day to the international market, with countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran leading the way. This blog highlights the top 10 oil producers in Asia and also highlights other nations that contribute to the continent’s overall oil output.
Major Oil Producing Countries in Asia
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top 10 Major Oil Producing Countries in Asia
- Other Oil Producing Countries in Asia
- Conclusion
Top 10 Major Oil Producing Countries in Asia
The table below presents the top 10 oil producing countries in Asia, along with their approximate production levels in million barrels per day (mbpd) and their global ranking.
| Country | Production (Million Barrels/Day) | Global Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | 10.0 – 10.5 mbpd | 2nd |
| Iraq | 4.5 – 4.6 mbpd | 5th |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 3.5 – 3.6 mbpd | 7th |
| Iran | 3.0 – 3.2 mbpd | 8th |
| Kuwait | 2.7 – 2.8 mbpd | 9th |
| China | 4.0 mbpd | 6th |
| Qatar | 1.5 – 1.6 mbpd | 14th |
| Oman | 1.0 – 1.1 mbpd | 19th |
| Kazakhstan | 1.7 – 1.8 mbpd | 12th |
| Malaysia | 0.6 – 0.7 mbpd | 25th |
1. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the largest oil producer in Asia and the second-largest globally after the United States. Producing about 10 million barrels per day, the kingdom’s oil is controlled mainly by Saudi Aramco, the world’s most valuable energy company. Oil accounts for the majority of Saudi Arabia’s export earnings and government revenue, making it the backbone of the national economy.
2. Iraq
Iraq ranks second in Asia and fifth globally, producing about 4.5 million barrels per day. The majority of Iraq’s oil reserves are located in the southern part of the country, especially around Basra. Despite political instability, Iraq remains a critical player in OPEC and a major supplier to both Asia and Europe.
3. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE produces about 3.5 million barrels per day, making it the third-largest in Asia. Abu Dhabi is home to the country’s largest oil reserves, and the UAE has invested heavily in modernizing its oil and gas sector. The country also stands out for balancing oil production with investments in renewable energy projects like Masdar City.
4. Iran
Iran produces around 3 million barrels per day, ranking fourth in Asia. Despite facing international sanctions that limit exports, Iran remains a significant oil player due to its vast reserves. Most of its oil fields are located in the southwestern region, particularly in Khuzestan.
5. Kuwait
Kuwait produces approximately 2.7 million barrels per day. With a relatively small population compared to its oil wealth, Kuwait enjoys one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. Oil contributes more than half of the country’s GDP and about 90% of export revenues.
6. China
China, although better known as the world’s largest oil importer, also produces about 4 million barrels per day. Most of its production comes from fields in Heilongjiang (Daqing oil field), the Bohai Bay, and Xinjiang. However, China’s domestic production cannot keep up with its high demand, making it reliant on imports.
7. Qatar
Qatar produces about 1.5 million barrels per day, but it is better known for its dominance in liquefied natural gas (LNG). Oil still plays a significant role in its economy, and revenues from hydrocarbons have allowed Qatar to achieve one of the highest GDPs per capita globally.
8. Oman
Oman produces about 1.0–1.1 million barrels per day. Unlike its Gulf neighbors, Oman is not a member of OPEC, but it still coordinates oil production policies with the group. The country has invested in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies to sustain its output from mature fields.
9. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is one of the leading oil producers in Central Asia, producing around 1.7–1.8 million barrels per day. The Tengiz and Kashagan fields are among the largest in the world. Oil exports are vital to Kazakhstan’s economy, contributing significantly to government revenue.
10. Malaysia
Malaysia produces about 600,000–700,000 barrels per day, mainly from offshore fields in Sabah and Sarawak. The oil and gas sector is managed by Petronas, the state-owned company, which also operates internationally. Oil contributes to Malaysia’s export earnings but is less dominant compared to Gulf countries.
Other Oil Producing Countries in Asia
Apart from the top 10, several other Asian countries also produce oil, though on a smaller scale. These nations play supporting roles in the region’s overall petroleum industry.
- Indonesia – Produces around 600,000 barrels per day. Although it used to be a member of OPEC, Indonesia now focuses on domestic supply and exports limited amounts.
- Thailand – Produces about 200,000–250,000 barrels per day, mainly from offshore fields in the Gulf of Thailand.
- Vietnam – Produces around 180,000–200,000 barrels per day, with output coming largely from offshore projects in the South China Sea.
- Brunei – Produces about 100,000–120,000 barrels per day. Oil and gas are the backbone of Brunei’s small but wealthy economy.
- Yemen – Despite conflict, Yemen produces 50,000–70,000 barrels per day from its oil reserves, mainly in the central and southern parts of the country.
- Myanmar – Produces 20,000–25,000 barrels per day, mostly from onshore fields.
Top Oil Producing Countries in Asia
| Rank | Country | Production (Million Barrels/Day) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saudi Arabia | 10.0 – 10.5 mbpd |
| 2 | Iraq | 4.5 – 4.6 mbpd |
| 3 | China | 4.0 mbpd |
| 4 | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 3.5 – 3.6 mbpd |
| 5 | Iran | 3.0 – 3.2 mbpd |
| 6 | Kuwait | 2.7 – 2.8 mbpd |
| 7 | Kazakhstan | 1.7 – 1.8 mbpd |
| 8 | Qatar | 1.5 – 1.6 mbpd |
| 9 | Oman | 1.0 – 1.1 mbpd |
| 10 | Malaysia | 0.6 – 0.7 mbpd |
Frequently Asked Questions – Major Oil Producing Countries in Asia
1. Which country is the largest oil producer in Asia?
Saudi Arabia is the largest oil producer in Asia, producing about 10–10.5 million barrels per day, making it the second-largest in the world after the United States.
2. What is the second-largest oil producing country in Asia?
Iraq ranks second in Asia, producing around 4.5 million barrels per day, mainly from oil fields in the Basra region.
3. How much oil does China produce annually?
China produces about 4 million barrels per day, which is significant, but it still imports more oil than it produces due to its high energy demand.
4. Which Asian country has the largest oil reserves?
Saudi Arabia holds the largest oil reserves in Asia, with more than 260 billion barrels, concentrated in fields such as Ghawar and Safaniya.
5. Is Iran still a major oil producer despite sanctions?
Yes, Iran produces around 3 million barrels per day, but international sanctions often limit its ability to export oil freely.
6. What role does Kazakhstan play in Asia’s oil production?
Kazakhstan produces about 1.7–1.8 million barrels per day from fields like Tengiz and Kashagan, making it a key producer in Central Asia.
7. Does Malaysia produce enough oil for exports?
Yes, Malaysia produces about 600,000–700,000 barrels per day, much of it from offshore fields, and exports a significant portion through its state-owned company Petronas.
8. Which smaller Asian countries also produce oil?
Countries like Brunei, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Yemen produce oil on a smaller scale, ranging from 20,000 to 600,000 barrels per day.
9. Which Asian country is most dependent on oil for its economy?
Kuwait is among the most oil-dependent economies in Asia, with oil contributing over 90% of its export revenues and more than half of its GDP.
10. What is the future of oil production in Asia?
While Asia will continue to be a dominant oil-producing region, global shifts toward renewable energy and diversification efforts may reduce dependence on oil in the coming decades.
Conclusion – Major Oil Producing Countries in Asia
Asia is home to some of the world’s largest oil producing countries, led by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. These countries not only dominate regional production but also influence global energy markets through OPEC and strategic supply agreements. Beyond the top producers, smaller contributors like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam ensure that Asia remains diverse in its petroleum output. As global energy demand continues to evolve, Asia’s oil producing nations will remain vital players in balancing the needs of both local consumption and international markets.
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