Middle Eastern crude oil exports have recovered to levels above those recorded before the war with Iran, while attacks on commercial vessels continue around the Strait of Hormuz, according to Reuters.

Exports exceeded pre-war levels on several days in the final week of September, reaching between 19.5 million and 22.5 million barrels per day on September 24 and between September 27 and 29.

The seven-day moving average was about 18.5 million barrels per day on October 1, compared with approximately 18 million barrels per day before the conflict began.

Including petroleum products, chemicals and other non-gas liquids, the region’s exports averaged 22.4 million barrels per day in the seven days to September 30.

Liquefied natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz reached their highest monthly level since February in September.

At least seven attacks on tankers around the strait have been reported recently.

Before the conflict, approximately 20% of global daily crude oil and LNG supplies passed through the waterway.

Source: Reuters, October 5, 2026.

UK Reported to Be Considering Tariffs on Chinese Electric Vehicles

The British government is considering tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, The Times reported, citing concerns about lower-priced, state-supported imports.

The newspaper reported that Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds is preparing a possible tariff package. The government has not announced any tariffs. A government spokesperson told Reuters that discussions with the automotive industry are continuing and that the UK’s approach will reflect national interests.

The European Union has imposed tariffs of up to 45% on Chinese electric cars, saying Chinese state subsidies create unfair competition.

British manufacturers have raised concerns that not adopting a similar approach could create difficulties for companies operating across UK and European markets, given the close integration of automotive supply chains.

Chinese electric vehicle makers have gained international market share by competing on price, technology and vehicle features.