Algeria has emerged as a key player in supplying petroleum products to South Korea, ranking third among the country's top suppliers in 2026. According to data from the Attaqa Energy Research Unit, Algeria exported an average of 67,000 barrels of petroleum products per day to South Korea between January and September 2026. This performance places Algeria ahead of major producers such as the United States and India.
The top three suppliers of petroleum products to South Korea during this period were Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and Algeria, with Japan leading the list with 74,000 barrels per day, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 72,000 barrels per day. The United States and India ranked fourth and fifth, respectively, with 59,000 and 47,000 barrels per day.
A total of ten countries supplied petroleum products to South Korea during this period, with the top suppliers being Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Algeria, the United States, India, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Singapore, and Kuwait. These countries collectively supplied an average of 485,000 barrels per day, accounting for approximately 69% of South Korea's total petroleum product imports.
Despite Algeria's strong performance, South Korea's petroleum product imports have declined significantly in 2026. The country's imports averaged 706,000 barrels per day between January and September 2026, down from 995,000 barrels per day during the same period in 2025. This represents a 29% decrease in imports over the past year.
The decline in South Korea's petroleum product imports has been consistent throughout 2026, with the first quarter seeing a 16% decrease, the second quarter a 27% decrease, and the third quarter a 33% decrease. The monthly data also reflects this trend, with imports dropping by 46% in August and 38% in September compared to the same months in 2025.
The decrease in South Korea's petroleum product imports can be attributed to various factors, including changes in the country's energy landscape and global market trends. However, Algeria's consistent supply of petroleum products to South Korea has enabled the country to maintain its position as a key supplier.
Algeria's energy sector has been gaining momentum in recent years, with the country seeking to expand its presence in the global energy market. The country's strong performance in supplying petroleum products to South Korea is a testament to its growing influence in the sector.
Key points
- Algeria ranks third among South Korea's top petroleum product suppliers in 2026.
- South Korea's petroleum product imports have declined by 29% in 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
- Algeria exported an average of 67,000 barrels of petroleum products per day to South Korea between January and September 2026.
