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Top 10 Biggest Oil Companies in the World: A Comprehensive List

Thomas Groenvold
Updated on
May 22, 2023

The oil and gas industry is one of the most vital sectors in the global economy, with oil being the primary source of energy for transportation, manufacturing, and various other industries. The industry is dominated by a few large corporations that control a significant portion of the world’s oil reserves and production. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ten biggest oil companies in the world.

These companies are ranked based on their revenue, which is a reflection of their size and influence in the industry. The list includes both state-owned and publicly traded corporations, with some of them having operations in multiple countries. The ranking is updated annually, and the latest figures are from the fiscal year 2020-2021. The article will provide a brief overview of each company, their revenue, and their position in the global oil and gas market.

1. Saudi Arabian Oil Co. (Saudi Aramco)

Saudi Arabian Oil Co., also known as Saudi Aramco, is the largest oil company in the world by revenue, with a revenue of $590.3 billion as of 2022. The company is headquartered in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, and is owned by the Saudi Arabian government.

Saudi Aramco has a massive oil production capacity of over 12 million barrels per day, making it the largest crude oil producer in the world. The company also has one of the world’s largest refining businesses, with over 4.9 million barrels of crude oil processed per day.

In addition to its oil and gas operations, Saudi Aramco has invested heavily in petrochemicals and other downstream industries. The company’s integrated petrochemical refinery complex at Jazan City is part of its vibrant downstream growth strategy.

Saudi Aramco has also formed partnerships with other major oil companies, such as Royal Dutch Shell and Total, to bring commercial and technical expertise to its operations.

Despite its massive size and revenue, Saudi Aramco has faced some challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a decrease in global oil demand, leading to a drop in oil prices and a decline in the company’s profits. However, Saudi Aramco has continued to invest in new technologies and explore new opportunities to maintain its position as the world’s largest oil company.

Key Facts
HeadquartersDhahran, Saudi Arabia
Revenue (TTM)$590.3 billion
Net Income (TTM)$156.5 billion
Production CapacityOver 12 million barrels per day
Refining CapacityOver 4.9 million barrels per day

In conclusion, Saudi Aramco is a massive oil company that dominates the global oil industry. Despite facing challenges in recent years, the company has continued to invest in new technologies and explore new opportunities to maintain its position as the world’s largest oil company.

2. China Petroleum & Chemical Corp. (SNPMF)

China Petroleum & Chemical Corp., also known as Sinopec, is a Chinese state-owned oil and gas company that was founded in 2000. It is headquartered in Beijing and has operations in over 30 countries around the world. With a revenue of over $366 billion, Sinopec is the second-largest oil company in the world.

Operations

Sinopec’s main business operations include exploration, production, transportation, and marketing of petroleum and petrochemical products. It operates in four main segments: Exploration and Production, Refining, Marketing and Distribution, and Chemicals.

The Exploration and Production segment is responsible for the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. Sinopec has oil and gas assets in China, Canada, Russia, Angola, Kazakhstan, and other countries. In 2022, Sinopec produced over 1.5 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

The Refining segment is responsible for refining crude oil into petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Sinopec has 15 refineries in China, with a total refining capacity of 248 million tons per year. It also has refining operations in other countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Singapore.

The Marketing and Distribution segment is responsible for the sales and distribution of Sinopec’s petroleum and petrochemical products. Sinopec has over 30,000 gas stations in China and also operates convenience stores and car washes at some of its gas stations.

The Chemicals segment is responsible for the production and sale of petrochemical products such as ethylene, propylene, and polyethylene. Sinopec is one of the largest producers of petrochemicals in China and has operations in other countries such as the United States and Singapore.

Environmental and Social Responsibility

Sinopec has made efforts to improve its environmental and social responsibility in recent years. It has implemented measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, and increase the use of renewable energy sources. Sinopec has also made efforts to improve the safety of its operations and to promote sustainable development.

In conclusion, Sinopec is a major player in the global oil and gas industry. With operations in over 30 countries and a revenue of over $366 billion, it is one of the largest oil companies in the world. Sinopec’s main business operations include exploration, production, transportation, and marketing of petroleum and petrochemical products. The company has made efforts to improve its environmental and social responsibility in recent years.

3. PetroChina Co. Ltd.

PetroChina Co. Ltd. is the second-largest oil and gas company in China, with a production capacity of 3.5 million barrels of oil per day. The company was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Beijing, China. It is a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), which is the largest integrated energy company in China.

PetroChina’s business operations include exploration, development, production, and marketing of crude oil and natural gas, refining, transportation, and sale of petroleum products, as well as the production and sale of chemicals. The company has a presence in more than 70 countries and regions around the world.

In terms of revenue, PetroChina is one of the largest companies in the world. In 2022, the company’s revenue was $486.4 billion, making it the third-largest oil company in the world, after Saudi Aramco and ExxonMobil.

PetroChina’s major oil and gas fields are located in China’s western regions, including the Tarim Basin, the Sichuan Basin, and the Ordos Basin. The company also has oil and gas assets in other countries, including Canada, Iraq, Qatar, and Australia.

PetroChina has been investing heavily in research and development to improve the efficiency of its operations and reduce its environmental impact. The company has implemented various measures to reduce emissions, including the use of cleaner fuels and the development of carbon capture and storage technology.

Overall, PetroChina is one of the largest and most influential oil and gas companies in the world, with a strong presence in China and a growing international footprint.

4. Exxon Mobil Corp

Exxon Mobil Corp (XOM) is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world, with a production capacity of 3.2 million barrels of oil per day. The company has a strong presence in the upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas sectors, with operations spanning the globe.

Exxon Mobil is headquartered in Irving, Texas, and is a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange. The company’s market capitalization is around $250 billion as of May 2023.

Exxon Mobil is known for its expertise in technology and engineering, and has a long history of innovation in the oil and gas industry. The company is involved in a wide range of activities, from exploration and production to refining and marketing.

In recent years, Exxon Mobil has faced criticism for its role in contributing to climate change. The company has been accused of downplaying the risks of climate change and funding climate denial campaigns. However, in response to pressure from investors and activists, Exxon Mobil has recently pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and invest in renewable energy.

Overall, Exxon Mobil is a major player in the global oil and gas industry, with a strong reputation for technological expertise and innovation. However, the company faces significant challenges in the coming years as the world transitions to a low-carbon economy.

5. Royal Dutch Shell PLC

Royal Dutch Shell PLC is one of the largest publicly traded petroleum corporations worldwide. It is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, and has operations in over 90 countries globally. The company engages in the exploration, production, refining, and marketing of crude oil and natural gas. It also produces chemical feedstocks for various industries.

In 2021, Royal Dutch Shell PLC had a revenue of $180.5 billion and a net income of $4.8 billion. The company has a market capitalization of $200.3 billion and employs around 87,000 people globally.

Shell’s business is divided into four segments: Upstream, Integrated Gas, Chemicals, and Downstream. The Upstream segment is responsible for the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. The Integrated Gas segment is involved in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) business. The Chemicals segment produces and markets petrochemicals, and the Downstream segment is responsible for refining, marketing, and supply of oil products.

Shell has several notable projects, including the Prelude FLNG project, which is the world’s largest floating liquefied natural gas platform. The project started production in 2018 and is located off the northwest coast of Australia.

In recent years, Shell has been investing in renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, to diversify its energy portfolio. In 2020, the company set a target to become a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050.

In conclusion, Royal Dutch Shell PLC is a leading oil and gas company with a global presence and diverse operations. The company has a strong focus on sustainability and is investing in renewable energy sources to reduce its carbon footprint.

6. TotalEnergies SE

TotalEnergies SE is a French multinational integrated energy and petroleum company founded in 1924. It is one of the seven supermajor oil companies in the world. Its businesses cover the entire oil and gas chain, from crude oil and natural gas exploration and production to power generation, transportation, refining, petroleum product marketing, and international crude oil and product trading.

In 2021, TotalEnergies had a revenue of $184.634 billion and a net income of $18.06 billion. The company has a market capitalization of over $120 billion and employs more than 105,000 people worldwide.

TotalEnergies has operations in more than 130 countries and is involved in various projects related to renewable energy, such as solar power, wind power, and biofuels. In recent years, the company has been focusing on reducing its carbon footprint and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

TotalEnergies is also known for its commitment to innovation and research. The company has several research and development centers around the world, including in France, the United States, and China. In 2020, TotalEnergies invested over $1.5 billion in research and development, focusing on areas such as carbon capture and storage, energy storage, and hydrogen.

Overall, TotalEnergies is a major player in the global oil and gas industry, with a strong presence in both traditional and renewable energy sectors. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has made it a leader in the energy transition.

7. Chevron Corp.

Chevron Corp. (CVX) is the seventh largest oil company in the world by revenue. The American multinational energy corporation is headquartered in San Ramon, California, and operates in more than 180 countries. Chevron is primarily engaged in the exploration, production, and transportation of crude oil and natural gas, as well as the refining and marketing of petroleum products.

Chevron’s revenue for 2021 was $227.1 billion, with a net income of $16.7 billion. The company has a market capitalization of over $200 billion and employs more than 48,000 people worldwide. Chevron’s major operations are located in the United States, Canada, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Chevron has a diversified portfolio of assets, including conventional and unconventional oil and gas resources. The company’s upstream operations include exploration and production activities in deepwater, shale, and other resource-rich areas. Chevron’s downstream operations include refining, marketing, and transportation of petroleum products, as well as the production of petrochemicals.

Chevron is committed to sustainable development and has set goals to reduce its carbon footprint. The company has invested in renewable energy and is working on developing new technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Chevron has also implemented programs to promote energy efficiency and conservation.

In conclusion, Chevron Corp. is one of the largest and most diversified oil companies in the world. The company’s commitment to sustainable development and reducing its carbon footprint is commendable. Chevron’s diversified portfolio of assets and operations in multiple regions make it a strong player in the global energy industry.

8. BP PLC

BP PLC, also known as British Petroleum, is a British multinational oil and gas company headquartered in London, England. It operates in over 70 countries and has a workforce of approximately 70,000 employees.

Revenue and Net Income

In terms of revenue, BP PLC is the eighth largest oil company in the world, with a total revenue of $222.7 billion as of 2022. However, the company has been facing financial challenges in recent years, reporting a net loss of $11 billion in 2021.

Oil and Gas Reserves

BP PLC has a proven oil and gas reserves of 18.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE) as of the end of 2021. The company’s reserves are spread across various regions, with the majority located in the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

Environmental Impact

BP PLC has been criticized for its environmental impact, particularly in relation to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010. The spill, which occurred in the Gulf of Mexico, resulted in the largest marine oil spill in history. BP PLC has since committed to reducing its carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Corporate Social Responsibility

BP PLC has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and has implemented various initiatives to support local communities and promote sustainability. The company has focused on improving access to energy in developing countries, supporting education and training programs, and reducing its environmental impact.

Overall, BP PLC is one of the largest oil companies in the world, with a significant global presence and a focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. However, the company has faced financial and environmental challenges in recent years, highlighting the need for continued innovation and improvement in the oil and gas industry.

9. Marathon Petroleum Corp.

Marathon Petroleum Corp. is an American petroleum refining, marketing, and transportation company based in Findlay, Ohio. It is the largest refiner in the Midwest and the fifth-largest in the United States. The company operates seven refineries in the United States with a total capacity of 3.1 million barrels per day.

Marathon Petroleum Corp. has a diverse product portfolio, including gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, asphalt, and other petroleum products. The company’s retail segment operates more than 7,000 convenience stores and gas stations under the Speedway brand across the United States.

In 2019, Marathon Petroleum Corp. reported total revenue of $124.8 billion and a net income of $2.6 billion. The company’s market capitalization as of May 2023 is approximately $50 billion.

Marathon Petroleum Corp. has faced criticism in recent years for its environmental record. In 2021, the company agreed to pay a $75 million penalty to settle air pollution violations at its refineries. The company has also been criticized for its lobbying efforts to weaken environmental regulations.

Despite these challenges, Marathon Petroleum Corp. remains a significant player in the global oil and gas industry. With its extensive refining and marketing operations, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on changes in the energy landscape in the coming years.

10. Valero Energy Corp.

Valero Energy Corp. is a United States-based integrated oil and gas company that has a production capacity of 1.6 million barrels of oil per day. The company is involved in a range of oil and gas-related activities, from exploration and production to refining and marketing and has a presence in over 15 countries.

Valero Energy Corp. is the largest independent petroleum refiner in the world and the world’s second-largest renewable fuels producer. The company’s refining operations include 15 petroleum refineries with a combined throughput capacity of approximately 3.2 million barrels per day.

Valero’s marketing operations include approximately 7,000 branded wholesale sites in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. The company also owns and operates a network of more than 1,000 retail sites in the United States.

Valero Energy Corp. is committed to sustainable practices and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The company has invested in renewable energy projects, including wind and solar power, and has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by over 20% since 2010.

In terms of financial performance, Valero Energy Corp. reported revenue of $97.1 billion in 2021, with net income of $2.2 billion. The company’s market capitalization was approximately $43.6 billion as of May 2023.

Overall, Valero Energy Corp. is a major player in the oil and gas industry and has a strong presence in various markets around the world. The company’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy projects is a positive step towards a more environmentally conscious future.

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