OPEC Oil Output in April Climbs to Highest Since 2012

OPEC oil supply in April has jumped to its highest in more than two years, boosted by record or near-record supplies from Iraq and Saudi Arabia, a Reuters survey showed, as key members stand firm in their focus on market share.

The increase from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries puts output further above forecasts of demand for OPEC oil in the first half of the year, although second-half demand is expected to be stronger.

OPEC supply has risen in April to 31.04 million barrels per day (bpd) from a revised 30.97 million bpd in March, according to the survey, based on shipping data and information from sources at oil companies, OPEC and consultants.