ZB ZB
Opinion
Live now
Start time
Playing for
End time
Listen live
Listen to NAME OF STATION
Up next
Listen live on
ZB

US agrees to release 172 million oil barrels from reserves amid soaring prices

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 10:01am
In an aerial view, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve storage at the Bryan Mound site is seen on October 19, 2022 in Freeport, Texas. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
In an aerial view, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve storage at the Bryan Mound site is seen on October 19, 2022 in Freeport, Texas. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

US agrees to release 172 million oil barrels from reserves amid soaring prices

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 10:01am

Members of the International Energy Agency have unanimously agree to release 400 million barrels of oil reserves to help combat steep oil prices arising from the conflict in the Middle East. 

It equates to about four-days' worth and is the largest ever release of reserves in the agency's history. 

The US is releasing 172 million barrels from their Strategic Petroleum Reserve, beginning next week. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Mike Hosking the move will result in a 40% decrease in the US’ oil backstop.  

LISTEN ABOVE 

Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you