The oil industry will be watching what happens in Venezuela, following the death of President Hugo Chavez this week.
Wisconsin Petroleum Council Executive Director Erin Roth says Venezuela has the world’s largest oil reserve, which could have an impact of the global market if Chavez’s death results in political instability in the country and production slows down.
AUDIO: Erin Roth (:15)
Roth points out the US has been importing less oil from Venezuela in recent years, as production from Canada and the US has increased. That could help to minimize the impact here.
Statewide gas prices have already been on the rise since the beginning of the year. According to AAA-Wisconsin Fuel Gauge report, the statewide average is currently at about $3.69 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel.
John Colbert, WIBA