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International RelationsThe Hindu World 03 May 2026

OPEC | Cracks in the oil crown

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Hey future lawyers, understanding global economics is key for CLAT! So basically, the UAE announced it's leaving OPEC, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, a major global oil group, after nearly six decades. This move, effective May 1, removes one of OPEC's biggest producers. What this really means is a shift in global oil dynamics and international cooperation. For CLAT, it highlights how

General view of Saudi Aramco's Ras Tanura oil refinery and oil terminal in Saudi Arabia.

On April 29, the UAE announced it would leave the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), ending nearly six decades of membership. The decision, effective May 1, removes one of the group’s largest producers.

OPEC traces its origins to September 1960, when representatives from Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela gathered in Baghdad. At the time, the global oil industry was controlled largely by a consortium of Western companies known as the Seven Sisters. Producing countries had a limited say over how much oil was extracted, or at what price it was sold and revenues depended on decisions made elsewhere.

Originally published by The Hindu World on 03 May 2026. CLAT Tribe summarises and curates for exam relevance.View original