Oil industry in the international context, 2010–2017: an analysis of efficiency through the network DEA model

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to determine the level of technical efficiency of the main oil countries worldwide during the period 2010–2017. Design/methodology/approach The use of the network data envelopment analysis model (NDM) is proposed, in which the technical efficiency of each node is calculated. For the development of the model, three main nodes were identified: exploration and production, industrial transformation and commercialization. Finally, NDM for the international oil industry will be structured, and efficiency will be calculated at the global level and at each node. Findings The analysis of the results of the application of the NDM raised that the most efficient node was exploration and production, whereas the efficient oil countries were the USA, France, the United Arab Emirates and Angola. Research limitations/implications The limitation presented in this investigation was the availability of data. Practical implications The practical implications of this type of study are that, through the results obtained, proposals can be made in the oil industry to improve each of the nodes or areas in which efficiency was not reached, as well as make better use of the resources available to this industry in each country. Social implications The social implications of this study are the basis for developing energy policies in the oil industry to help improve the quality of life of users. Originality/value The value and originality of this study is based on the joint implementation of the NDM methodology.