Petrobras Pre-Salt Output Grew 11% in 2025, Accounts for 82% of Production
Petrobras’ pre-salt assets drove an 11% increase in oil production in 2025, with pre-salt volumes comprising 82% of total output. The company allocates nearly 60% of its exploration and production capex to pre-salt fields, where breakeven costs below $40 per barrel support low-cost, sustainable growth.
1. Pre-Salt Production Performance
In 2025, pre-salt assets drove an 11% increase in oil output, with volumes reaching 2,100 barrels per day in the fourth quarter and comprising 82% of total production. Maintenance downtime in the Santos Basin was largely offset by capacity additions from FPSOs Almirante Tamandaré and Marechal Duque de Caxias and new well start-ups at Alexandre de Gusmão.
2. Low-Cost, Sustainable Economics
Pre-salt projects maintain breakeven costs below $40 per barrel, with further declines expected as development advances. The light, low-sulfur crude reduces refining expenses and emissions, aligning stronger profit margins with environmental targets.
3. Capex Focus and Expansion Plans
Petrobras plans to allocate nearly 60% of its exploration and production capital expenditure to pre-salt assets and deploy multiple new production systems through 2029. Key initiatives include FPSO expansions, new deepwater well start-ups and optimized field development schedules.