World Trade

World Trade News
By Vasily Klimko

During the past week, the world has witnessed a series of events that influenced the various sectors of the growing global economy. On one hand, some events promised more developments and expansion not only in the international trade but also in specific countries. On the other hand, some occurrences may negatively impact or alter certain aspects of world trade including the economy of the country specifically involved.

Oil Price Rolls Back in the World market

The entire week is full of good news for oil importers worldwide. Since Monday, the oil price decreased by $2 per barrel in the world market. Prior to that, the value of oil kept on increasing due to the disruption of supply in Iraq as well as in Nigeria. According to the report by Mohamed El Baradei, director of International Atomic Energy Agency, Iraq has been planning to empower its production of nuclear fuel. The news has caused tension and raised concerns regarding nuclear weapons. Discussion about the issue is currently ongoing. The IAEA will talk about the subject on its scheduled meeting on March 6. After which, the report will be handed to the U.N security for final assessment.

The almost $2 decrease of oil price in the world market was caused by a failed terrorist attack that took place at the largest oil plant in Saudi. The situation though was immediately controlled by the Saudi forces that were roused to full alert because of the tension. The oil supply though was not disrupted within the country despite the attack. The value of light crude oil decreased by $1.91 while the price of brent crude oil lowered to $1.61.

The opposite situation, however, is taking place in Nigeria. Just recently, the oil price rose up to more than $2 per barrel. The sudden increase was influenced by the news of the Saudi terrorist attack. Moreover, another reason was oil supply within the Nigerian region was cut by 13,000 barrels per day due to the discovery of a leak. The series of militant threats and attacks within the region also prompted the increase of the oil price.

According to energy analysts, the improvement of the oil price in the world market would have been even better. However, there are several factors (like the focus of the oil market on short-term inventory data) that prevent more positive results. Currently, the oil price still remains close to $61 per barrel as a result of Algeria's plea to OPEC for market stability.