Gap between Net Imports and Total Imports of Petroleum is Widening

Net imports of petroleum (total imports minus exports) were 6.2 million barrels per day in 2013 – the lowest since the 1980's (dark blue line). The widening gap between total imports (light blue line) and net imports (dark blue line) is due to an increase in exports of petroleum and petroleum products in recent years. Total imports, net imports, and U.S. petroleum consumption all peaked in 2005 and have generally declined since then.