Rio, - Petrobras reports that in 2003 its total production of petroleum and natural gas rose 12.5%, compared to 2002, going from 1,810,200 barrels/day to 2,036,500 barrels/day.

In December total production was up 18.3% over December 2002, going from 1,691,100 barrels/day to 2,001,100 barrels/day.

According to the note, production in Brazilian fields in December, 2003, was equivalent to what it was in November. "Production was interrupted in December in the Jubarte field to inspect the ship Seillean. On the 20th, well VD-10 in the Voador field, in the Campos basin, began production, with a potential of two thousand barrels/day," the note explains.

There was a sharp rise (slightly over 322%) in Petrobras production abroad, mainly due to the incorporation of Perez Companc, now called Petrobras Energia. Total production abroad rose from an average of 58,171 barrels/day to 245,879 barrels/day. (AB)