Not quite 4 million barrels a day.
http://www.eia.gov/dnav/pet/pet_move_exp_dc_NUS-Z00_mbblpd_m.htm
Now we have offsetting imports, different product balances, different locations in and out.
And a large petrochemical industry as well.
And now you want it to be cheaper to refine the products in Mexico and only import the portions we need, rather than import the full barrel, keep the refinery jobs and export the selected surplus.
You also will crush our imports with Canada by setting a “bottom” price for oil substantially above the market price. Their oil (bitumen) is low grade and cost more to refine, so it sells for less. If we have to pay a premium, why would we buy the bottom barrels?
Stop looking for the federal government to help industry. It can only help by reducing their impact, not trying to select winners and losers.
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The industry is plenty capable of surviving this down turn, just like every one before it. I’ve already had cuts, probably have more before it is done. But a conservative doesn’t look for the federal government to get deeper in their business.
I would not recommend govt intervention to pick winners and losers.
But, I do advocate for govt to take steps to protect a viable oil industry in the USA.
Just like I advocate we make our own fighter planes and submarines.
It's a strategic imperative, no matter the cost to adjacent industry.