The OPEC+ alliance, a coalition of 22 major oil-producing nations led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, has postponed its planned weekend meeting to December 5, 2025, sparking speculation of internal discord over future production plans.

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced the rescheduling on Thursday, citing a clash with the 45th Gulf Summit in Kuwait City, where several ministers will be in attendance. The meeting will now be held virtually, according to an OPEC spokesperson.

Signs of Division

Initially set for Sunday, the meeting was expected to finalize the group’s 2025 output policy. Analysts, however, suggested the postponement reflects deeper issues within OPEC+.

“The dates were set a long time ago, so it’s not that they realised three days ago that there is a clash,” said Jorge Leon, an analyst at Rystad Energy. “It might be hinting that the group needs a little bit more time to decide what to do next. There seem to be divergent views, and the delay might help align them before the meeting.”

Efforts to Stabilize Oil Prices

In an effort to stabilize crude oil prices, eight key OPEC+ members—including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Algeria, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE—extended voluntary production cuts earlier this month through December 2025.

Oil prices have gained modest support from speculation that OPEC+ might delay production increases initially scheduled for January. However, concerns over slowing global demand continue to exert downward pressure on prices.

Balancing Market Dynamics

The decision to delay the meeting raises questions about OPEC+’s ability to maintain unity amid complex market dynamics.

Analysts at Norway’s DNB Bank warned that if OPEC+ sustains its output cuts, the group risks losing market share to non-OPEC producers who continue to ramp up production. Conversely, increasing output could trigger a drop in oil prices, further straining member economies.

“The oil market in 2025 has no room for additional OPEC+ barrels,” DNB analysts noted.

The upcoming December 5 meeting is now expected to provide critical insight into the group’s strategy for navigating these challenges and balancing the competing priorities of its members.