Russia is considering a total ban on diesel fuel exports due to a worsening shortage on the domestic market. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced that imports of petroleum products would begin in July.
- The Russian Government is considering a total ban on diesel fuel exports.
- Russia plans to start importing certain petroleum products in July.
- Restrictions on the sale of fuel to the general public are already in place in the regions.
- At some petrol stations, you can only fill up if your number plate ends in an even or odd number.
- The crisis was triggered by Ukrainian strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure.
Russia may completely halt diesel exports
Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak said that the authorities are considering the possibility of a total ban on the export of diesel fuel to stabilise the domestic market. The fuel supply situation remains challenging, so the government is also preparing additional tax and logistical measures, as well as drawing on strategic reserves.
Fuel imports: an unusual move for Russia
Another step towards overcoming the shortfall will be imports certain petroleum products as early as July. Such a scenario is unusual for Russia, which is traditionally one of the world’s largest exporters of diesel fuel. The need to source supplies from abroad is attributed to a fall in production following damage to a number of oil refineries.
Restrictions on the sale of fuel: the new reality
Cases are already being recorded in various regions of Russia fuel shortage, long queues and restrictions on its sale. According to reports in the Russian media, some petrol stations are operating a scheme whereby vehicles are allowed to refuel only on specific days, depending on whether their number plates end in an even or odd number. Such measures are intended to ease the strain on the fuel market.
Why it matters
The fuel crisis in Russia has been ongoing for several weeks. The country’s authorities acknowledge problems with supplying the domestic market and are considering emergency measures, including a ban on diesel exports and fuel imports. According to estimates by international agencies, the key cause has been Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries and logistics infrastructure, which have led to a reduction in production and supply disruptions.
