Russia Imposes Diesel Export Ban Until End of July 2026

The Russian government declared on Wednesday a prohibition on the export of diesel fuel by oil companies until July 31, 2026, while exempting exports conducted under international government agreements.

According to the government statement, "The temporary ban on the export of diesel fuel, ship fuel, and gas oils, effective until July 31, 2026, will now include producers of petroleum derivatives, and the relevant decree has been signed."

The statement added, "This decision was made to maintain stability in the domestic fuel market. At the same time, restrictions will not apply to diesel fuel exported from Russian territory under international government agreements."

Earlier on the same day, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed during a meeting held by President Vladimir Putin with government members that a full ban on diesel fuel exports would be imposed to allow increased supplies to the domestic market.

Novak also stated that the Russian government will begin importing petroleum products this month in addition to further increasing local production.

He pointed out that the demand for vehicle fuel in Russia has risen by about one-third, noting that this increase added extra pressure on the domestic market.

Novak explained that the government’s measures have contributed to partial stabilization of the fuel market, adding, "To address the tasks at hand and stabilize the situation, the government continues to take additional steps."

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that fuel supply disruptions, caused by logistical changes, have occurred in Russia during the current summer. He noted that the government implemented a series of measures to improve the situation, including the ban on gasoline exports, offering tax incentives for fuel imports, and increasing local production.

In previous remarks, Novak affirmed that the country possesses sufficient fuel quantities to meet domestic market needs, but the surge in demand due to panic led to consumption rising by approximately 20% to 30%.

He added that reorganizing logistical supply chains to meet new demands requires some time, and he also mentioned the possibility of imposing a temporary ban on diesel exports by producers for a short period spanning several months if necessary to ensure domestic market stability.