US Oil Companies Signal Investment Interest in Venezuela

US policy statements and investment proposals have brought renewed attention to Venezuela’s oil sector, with major US companies named as potential investors in infrastructure and production recovery efforts.

In early January 2026, President Donald Trump stated that leading US oil companies would commit billions of dollars to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure and restart production activities. This announcement follows ongoing interest in Venezuela’s energy sector and recent changes in the country’s political landscape.

Chevron remains the only US oil company currently operating in Venezuela, doing so under a sanctions waiver. The company said it would continue to follow all applicable laws and regulations in its operations.

Ali Moshiri, who previously held an executive position at Chevron, is raising $2 billion through his investment fund to support Venezuelan oil projects. His fund is targeting assets and reserves managed by PDVSA, Venezuela’s state oil company.

What the numbers show

• President Trump’s statement was made in January 2026
• Ali Moshiri is raising $2 billion for Venezuelan oil projects
• Analysts estimate tens to over $100 billion needed to restore output
• Restoration could take until the early 2030s

Industry analysts have stated that returning Venezuela’s oil production to previous levels would require substantial investment. Estimates range from several tens of billions to more than $100 billion, with a timeline that may extend into the next decade.

Venezuela’s oil is classified as extra-heavy, and much of the infrastructure supporting extraction and processing has deteriorated. Analysts have also noted that ongoing political instability in the country adds further risk for investors considering involvement in recovery projects.

Following President Trump’s statements and the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro, shares of US oil companies such as Chevron and ExxonMobil, along with oil service firms, experienced increases. This movement reflects market response to the policy announcements and recent events in Venezuela.

Industry reaction

Chevron stated it would continue to comply with all relevant laws and regulations while operating in Venezuela. The company is currently the only US oil firm with an active presence in the country under a sanctions waiver.

Ali Moshiri, through his investment fund, is seeking to raise substantial capital to invest in Venezuelan oil projects, specifically targeting assets associated with PDVSA. These efforts represent ongoing interest from US-linked entities in Venezuela’s energy sector.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.