Brazilian oil company Petrobras recorded multiple production and refining milestones in the first quarter of 2026, driven by output from its pre-salt fields and high refinery utilization, according to a statement released on May 11.
“In the first quarter of the year, highlights include the increase in total own production, which grew 16% compared to the same period in 2025, and the increase in the production and sale of refined products, which contribute to strengthening national energy security,” Petrobras stated.
The company reported total operated production of 4.65 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (b/d) and total equity production of 3.23 million b/d during the period.
Petrobras credits stronger Brent prices, fuel sales for first-quarter performance | OilNOW
It also posted record pre-salt equity production of 2.66 million b/d, maintaining the continued dominance of Brazil’s offshore deepwater basins in its output mix.
Gas output also hit a new milestone. Platforms in the Santos Basin reached a daily export record of 44.8 million cubic meters on March 28, reflecting higher offshore processing capacity.
Refining activity strengthened over the quarter, with Petrobras producing 1.81 million b/d of refined products, up 6.7% compared with the fourth quarter of 2025.
The company said 68% of output was concentrated in higher-value products, including diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel. In March, it achieved a monthly record for S-10 diesel production at 512,000 b.d,
“Refinery utilization factor reached 95% during the quarter, rising to 97.4% in March, the highest monthly refinery utilization since December 2014. Pre-salt oil processing reached 69%, contributing to the production of higher value-added refined products,” the company said.
Petrobras plays a central role in Brazil’s energy landscape as operator of major offshore and onshore oil and gas assets. The company produces crude and refined petroleum products that support transportation, industry, and aviation across Brazil and in export markets.
The company continues to dominate offshore operations in Brazil, controlling 36 of the country’s 49 offshore rigs.
