US becomes top global exporter of motor gasoline: EIA report

The United States has overtaken global competitors to become the world’s leading exporter of motor gasoline, according to the latest report from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).

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Accounting for more than 16% of global exports, the US exported an average of 900,000 barrels per day (b/d) of motor gasoline in 2023.

This shift highlights a significant transformation, with the country now firmly positioned as a net exporter of gasoline after decades as a net importer.

For over 50 years, from 1961 to 2015, the US primarily relied on imported gasoline to meet domestic demand.

However, the tide has turned over the past decade, as US exports soared, averaging more than 900,000 b/d in 2023.

This represents over 10% of the nation’s gasoline consumption, enough to fill the tanks of more than 1.5 million SUVs daily, based on an average tank size of 24 gallons.

The rise in US gasoline exports is a notable shift, placing the country ahead of other significant exporters like Singapore and the Netherlands, which have never exceeded 700,000 b/d.

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Key drivers of US export boom

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Several factors have contributed to the dramatic growth in US gasoline exports.

One of the most crucial elements is the expansion of refining capacity.

Since 2010, the US has invested heavily in upgrading its refineries, particularly by installing light crude oil processing units.

These units are designed to handle the increasing supply of light-tight oil produced through hydraulic fracturing (fracking).

As a result, refineries can now produce more gasoline, enabling the US to meet both domestic and international demand.

Additionally, domestic gasoline consumption has plateaued in recent years.

Since reaching its peak in 2018, US consumption has declined by about 0.4 million b/d.

This surplus in production, combined with stable or reduced domestic demand, has allowed the US to export excess gasoline to global markets.

US export markets: Mexico and more

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Motor gasoline has now become the third-largest category of US refined product exports, trailing only propane and distillate fuel oil.

While propane is mainly exported to Asian markets, US gasoline exports are primarily destined for Mexico, with over 500,000 b/d shipped south of the border.

Other key markets include countries in Central and South America, where demand for US gasoline continues to rise.

Notably, over 90% of US gasoline exports come from the Gulf Coast region (PADD 3), which has a strong refining infrastructure and proximity to major shipping routes, making it a critical hub for international fuel shipments.

In comparison to other major gasoline-exporting nations, the US is in a league of its own.

Singapore and the Netherlands, long considered key players in gasoline exports, have never surpassed 700,000 b/d.

Although countries like China and India have expanded their refining capacities and increased exports, they still lag behind the U.S., which has emerged as the global leader.

As the world continues to face energy challenges, the US’s role in the global fuel market will be a critical area of focus for policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders alike.