According to Reuters, informed sources stated that Middle East crude oil producers have requested Asian refiners to submit shipping plans for April and May, in preparation for the eventual resumption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. However, there are currently no signs that Tehran is lifting the near-total blockade of this critical waterway, which has previously led to a sharp spike in energy prices. Nevertheless, the previously announced two-week ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran has ignited hopes for the reopening of the strait. Two of the sources mentioned that Saudi Aramco, the world's largest exporter, has asked its customers to submit nominations for cargo shipments from the ports of Yanbu and Ras Tanura in May. One of them indicated that this would depend on the resumption of exports from the eastern Ras Tanura port, which requires vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.