Venezuela’s crude, known for its high sulfur content and heavy viscosity, poses significant challenges for extraction and refining. Analysts warn that even with increased production, the country’s oil cannot effectively replace the volumes trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. The technical difficulties, coupled with aging infrastructure and political instability, limit Venezuela’s ability to meet international demand. As global markets monitor the Strait’s security, the nation’s crude remains a secondary, rather than primary, source of oil for the world.
Analysts say Venezuelan crude is hard to extract and refine, and likely can't replace oil stuck in the Strait of Hormuz.
