Amuay refinery

The Amuay refinery is a major oil production facility in Venezuela, with an estimated capacity of over 350,000 barrels per day. It has been the subject of recent news due to its strategic importance and environmental concerns. Energy Secretary Chris Wright's visit to Venezuela in February 2026 marked warmer ties between Washington and Caracas, highlighting the country's growing energy relations with the US. In January 2026, the US seized a seventh sanctioned tanker linked to Venezuela, further emphasizing the country's oil reserves as a key point of contention. The refinery's operation has also raised environmental concerns due to its production of extra-heavy oil, which generates more greenhouse gases and requires more energy to extract. As Venezuela's largest refinery, Amuay plays a significant role in the country's economy and global energy dynamics.