Russia weighs gasoline export ban to stabilise domestic prices

Russia is considering introducing restrictions on gasoline exports, as Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has instructed the Ministry of Energy of Russia to prepare a draft resolution that would ban gasoline exports by producers starting April 1, 2026.

The directive was announced in a statement published on the Russian government’s official website.

According to the government, the proposed measure is intended to stabilise fuel prices and ensure sufficient supply for the domestic market.

The issue was discussed during a meeting involving representatives of the Ministry of Energy, the Federal Antimonopoly Service, the St. Petersburg Exchange, and industry companies. Participants noted that Russia currently has adequate reserves of both gasoline and diesel fuel.

Industry representatives also reported that oil refineries are operating at high capacity utilisation rates, allowing domestic demand to be fully met.

By Tamilla Hasanova