The International Energy Agency is expected to clarify details of a 100-million-barrel release, with the timing and diesel share in focus. A 50-million-barrel diesel release over four months would provide roughly 400,000 barrels per day, broadly matching the EU's 390,000-bpd drop in diesel and gasoil imports from March to September.
The IEA governing board is due to discuss the scale and timing of further stock releases on Thursday. Analysts said a rapid draw could push fuel prices lower, while a release spread over several months could have a smaller impact.
The IEA said last week that accelerating previously announced releases could rapidly bring another 100 million barrels to market. Analysts said a material impact would depend on whether the release is imminent and mainly diesel, and whether it is part of the original 400-million-barrel withdrawal launched in March or additional supply.
EU diesel and gasoil imports fell by 390,000 barrels per day between March and September, Kpler data showed. A 50-million-barrel diesel release spread over four months would provide roughly 400,000 bpd, based on Reuters calculations. EU rules require emergency stocks to cover at least 90 days of net imports or 61 days of consumption, whichever is greater.
