Which two countries represented approximately 48% of OPEC's production in the 1970s?

Which two countries represented approximately 48% of OPEC's production in the 1970s?

• A. Iran and Iraq
• B. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait
• C. Venezuela and Saudi Arabia
• D. Iran and Saudi Arabia

Answer: (D)

In the 1970s, two countries dominated OPEC’s crude output because they had by far the largest production capacity and reserves. Saudi Arabia repeatedly stood as the swing producer with the biggest share, while Iran was the next largest contributor. Together, their combined production made up roughly 48% of what OPEC produced, with the remaining members contributing the rest. This reflects how the cartel’s influence rested heavily on these two powers, especially as other members’ output was smaller in comparison.

In the 1970s, two countries dominated OPEC’s crude output because they had by far the largest production capacity and reserves. Saudi Arabia repeatedly stood as the swing producer with the biggest share, while Iran was the next largest contributor. Together, their combined production made up roughly 48% of what OPEC produced, with the remaining members contributing the rest. This reflects how the cartel’s influence rested heavily on these two powers, especially as other members’ output was smaller in comparison.