Saudi Arabia increased crude exports to 7.276 million barrels per day in February, up from 6.993 million in January, marking the highest output since October 2022. The rise demonstrates the kingdom's ability to maintain supply amid regional tensions. JODI data show Saudi production at 10.882 million bpd in February, up from 10.100 million in January. The data are compiled by Riyadh and other OPEC members and provide transparency amid market uncertainty. Refinery crude throughput rose to 3.012 million bpd from 2.805 million bpd in January, while direct crude burning increased by 21,000 bpd to 248,000 bpd. OPEC lowered its forecast for world oil demand in the second quarter by 500,000 bpd, and OPEC+ had agreed earlier this month to raise its oil output quotas by 206,000 bpd for May, a rise that will largely exist on paper as key members are unable to raise production. UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo said the kingdom increased production and export to fill storage abroad as volumes supplied to the market were lower in February. The analyst noted that tensions in the Middle East and the start of the conflict prompted this strategy. Heightened security risks and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz have reduced vessel movements to a minimum, constraining export flows despite ample production capacity. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, is facing growing challenges in moving its crude to global markets as the conflict prevents tankers exiting the Gulf.