U.S. Crude Oil Stockpiles Post Hefty Decline

Imports fall and exports rise, while product stocks see bigger-than-expected withdrawals

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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U.S. crude oil inventories dropped sharply last week as imports declined and exports increased, while product stocks like gasoline and distillates saw larger-than-anticipated drawdowns, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Why it matters

The significant decline in crude oil stockpiles, along with the drawdowns in refined product inventories, signals tightening supply conditions in the U.S. energy market. This could put upward pressure on oil and fuel prices, impacting consumers and businesses.

The details

Commercial crude oil stocks excluding the Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell by 9 million barrels to 419.8 million barrels, about 5% below the five-year average. Crude imports dropped by 281,000 barrels per day to 6.5 million barrels per day, while exports rose by 851,000 barrels per day to 4.6 million barrels per day. Gasoline inventories decreased by 3.2 million barrels to 255.8 million barrels, and distillate fuel stocks fell by 4.6 million barrels to 120.1 million barrels.

  • The data is for the week ended February 13, 2026.

The players

U.S. Energy Information Administration

The U.S. government agency that collects, analyzes, and disseminates energy information.

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What’s next

The market will be closely watching for any further changes in U.S. oil and product inventories in the coming weeks to gauge the tightness of supply and the potential impact on prices.

The takeaway

The sharp decline in U.S. crude oil and refined product stockpiles signals tightening supply conditions, which could lead to higher energy prices for consumers and businesses if the trend continues.