Russia extends gasoline export ban through 2026
Moscow extends fuel export restrictions through end of 2026 (photo: Getty Images)
Russia decided to extend its ban on gasoline exports for all producers through the end of 2026. At the same time, it plans to lift restrictions on diesel fuel exports, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak reports.
Details of fuel policy decision
According to the outlet, the decision to extend the export ban on gasoline for both producers and non-producers was made during a meeting of the government's fuel market task force. The move is intended to stabilize the domestic fuel market.
At the same time, the Russian government plans to remove restrictions on diesel exports.
Russian officials say restrictions will be lifted as the market recovers, to prevent oil refineries from facing excess inventories and reduced processing volumes.
The Russian government stressed that once domestic demand has been met, it is important to resume diesel exports to keep refineries operating at full capacity.
Fuel problems in Russia
Russia has experienced recurring fuel supply disruptions this summer. The Russian government has attributed the problems to changes in logistics.
To curb shortages and rising prices, authorities introduced a number of measures, including a temporary ban on gasoline and diesel exports.
The restrictions had originally been scheduled to remain in effect only through July 31.
Fuel situation in Russia
As previously reported, amid tightening restrictions and reduced export opportunities, Russian authorities seek to downplay the true scale of problems in the domestic fuel market.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, the Kremlin creates an illusion of stability while Russia's fuel crisis continues to deepen. Official public statements are increasingly at odds with reality, with shortages, declining refinery output, and rapidly rising fuel prices hidden behind claims of improvement.
As repeated attacks on oil refineries continue, Moscow has been forced into difficult choices. The Russian government is prioritizing fuel supplies for Moscow at the expense of other regions in an effort to prevent shortages in the capital.
The fuel situation has become so severe that Russia now prepares to import diesel fuel in addition to gasoline. Once one of the world's largest fuel exporters, the country is now being forced to seek diesel supplies abroad due to declining domestic refining capacity.
