Kuwait has resumed direct crude oil sales to refiners in Asia for the first time since the onset of the Iran war, signaling a gradual reopening of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz. According to traders, Kuwait Petroleum Corp (KPC) is offering at least 4 million barrels of its primary export grade crude, transported on two very large crude carriers, to buyers in China and South Korea.

The sale marks a notable development as Gulf producers navigate the complex security environment following Tehran’s repeated threats targeting vessels in the region. Despite ongoing tensions, Gulf oil exports have continued, with increasing coordination involving U.S. efforts to secure vessel transits through the strategic strait, although many tankers reportedly switch off their transponders to avoid identification and mitigate risk.

KPC is conducting these sales directly rather than through intermediaries, with the cargoes having already passed through the Strait of Hormuz and positioned to reach Asian markets promptly. The company declined to comment on the offer.

This move follows similar crude sales recently made by the United Arab Emirates, further indicating a slow but steady restoration of Gulf oil exports to international markets. Nonetheless, total energy flows from the region remain below the levels seen before the conflict began. The resumption of these shipments reflects both resilience and cautious adaptation by Gulf producers amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.