Oil prices eased on Friday, capping a second consecutive week of losses, as investors awaited the implementation of U.S. tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, set to take effect on Saturday. Brent crude futures for March delivery, which expired on Friday, settled down $0.11 at $76.76 per barrel, while the more actively traded April contract dropped $0.31 to $75.58. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also fell, settling down $0.20 (0.3%) at $72.53.
For the week, Brent lost 2.1%, while WTI declined 2.9%, reflecting investor uncertainty over potential trade disruptions. While sources indicated Canada and Mexico could seek exemptions for certain imports, the White House reaffirmed that the tariff deadline remained unchanged, with no updates on exemptions. Analysts suggested that crude futures would likely remain rangebound until further clarity emerged on Trump’s tariff plans.
Canada and Mexico are the top two crude suppliers to the U.S., with Canadian crude heavily utilized by U.S. Midwest refineries. If oil were included in the tariffs, it could significantly impact refinery operations and fuel prices. However, Trump has yet to confirm whether crude imports will be subject to the 25% duty. Analysts anticipate potential refinery run cuts if oil is included but expect a grace period for negotiations and a likely exemption for crude.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed an immediate and forceful response if the U.S. imposed tariffs, warning of potential economic hardship.
Meanwhile, market participants are closely watching the upcoming OPEC+ meeting on Monday, where the group is expected to maintain its current plan of gradual output increases despite Trump’s continued calls for lower oil prices.