Economic and political risks of world oil markets

The present easing on the world oil market could foster the illusion that energy problems are now resolved. During 1981 various oil-producing countries (OPEC and non-OPEC alike) found they had to cut their prices. OPEC production has had to be reduced by about one-third from the 1979 level of 31 mbd¹. Last September’s OPEC output of 20 mbd was the lowest monthly figure for 12 years and has by year-end 1981 recovered to just 22 mbd. “The OPEC is no longer able to dictate prices; there is more oil than the market can take.” These are typical recent comments, but they reflect too short-term and superficial a view. The real issue is the question whether energy supplies are secure in thelong term, too, and whether energy itself presents a danger for general economic and political developments.