Petroleum production in the Middle East countries in 1957 totaled 1,293,399,074 bbls., an average of 3,670,432 b/d. This is comparable with a total production of 1,257,611,320 bbls. in 1956.

Production in Pakistan in 1957 was 2,205,000 bbls., an average of 6,041 b/d. This is comparable with a total production of 2,114,390 bbls. in 1956. No production figures are available for India.

The general level of exploratory activity in the entire area remained high. Indicated oil discoveries were made in Saudi Arabia, and reports were received of a previously unreported 1956 indicated discovery in Afghanistan. Exploratory drilling was initiated in Jordan. The Heltz field in Israel was extended to the south.

A petroleum law permitting participation of foreign capital in exploration work in certain parts of Iran was passed during the year, and licenses were issued to a joint Iranian-Italian company. Rights covering Saudi Arabia's undivided half-interest in the Kuwait-Saudi Arabia Neutral Zone offshore area were granted to a Japanese company.

In West Pakistan, Karsal 1 was brought on production.