Band 9: The chart below shows the proportions of the world's oil resources held in different areas, together with the proportions consumed annually in the same areas. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

The chart illustrates the distribution of the world’s oil resources and the corresponding annual consumption across various regions.

A striking feature is the Middle East’s dominance in oil reserves, holding 56.52% of the world’s total—by far the largest share. However, it only accounts for 6.15% of global oil consumption. In contrast, the United States and Western Europe consume disproportionately more oil compared to their resources. The U.S., for instance, consumes 25.48% of the world’s oil annually but holds only 1.85% of the reserves. Similarly, Western Europe consumes 19.24% but holds just 1.47%.

Asia follows a similar trend, consuming 26.21% while possessing only 2.89% of the resources. On the other hand, Canada and Central and South America have relatively balanced proportions, with Canada holding 14.84% of the resources and consuming 2.48%, and Central and South America possessing 8.12% and consuming 6.7%.

Regions like Africa and Eastern Europe also show a close alignment between their reserves and consumption. Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand, along with “Other” regions, contribute minimally to both reserves and consumption.

In summary, oil consumption is heavily skewed toward industrialized and densely populated areas, while oil resources are concentrated in a few regions, particularly the Middle East.