The Russian government is exploring the possibility of banning diesel exports due to increasing domestic prices, according to a report by Kommersant on Wednesday. The report cites several unnamed sources.
Currently, Russia is the leading global exporter of seaborne diesel, surpassing the United States. Diesel accounts for Russia’s largest oil product export, totaling about 35 million metric tons annually. Nearly 75% of this diesel is transported through pipelines.
Last autumn, Russia halted diesel exports for roughly two weeks before resuming pipeline shipments. Additionally, Russia is already limiting gasoline exports and plans to reinstate a gasoline export ban starting August 1.
One source mentioned by Kommersant indicated that a diesel export ban could be implemented if domestic prices continue to rise sharply, though no decision has been made yet.
The Russian Energy Ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment.