The prohibition on exporting gasoline and the ban on rail shipments of diesel fuel from Russia remain in effect, continuing to prioritize domestic supply and price stability within the country. This stance is reflected in remarks cited by RIA Novosti concerning the statements of Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, who conveyed the government’s ongoing policy during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin with other senior officials.
Novak explained that the export bans are being sustained to ensure that the domestic market is adequately resourced and to guard against abrupt increases in wholesale fuel prices. The aim, as described, is to shield Russian consumers and key industries from volatility while the country navigates inventory and refining capacity considerations. The decision underscores a broader strategy to balance external trade flows with domestic energy needs, particularly in a period of market sensitivity and global price fluctuations.
Earlier reports indicated a partial relaxation of the diesel export ban by the Russian Council of Ministers. The government’s move appeared to be targeted at preventing oversaturation of the domestic market and preserving refinery throughput, while still maintaining controls designed to deter grey-market shipments. Deputy Prime Minister Novak noted the introduction of a protective duty pegged at 50,000 rubles per ton on all petroleum products destined for export, a measure intended to curb the movement of oil products that should serve domestic demand. This duty forms part of a broader framework meant to preserve domestic pricing integrity and to support domestic fuel availability.
On September 21, the government announced temporary restrictions on the export of gasoline and diesel. The objective cited for these measures was to stabilize fuel prices within Russia’s internal market, reducing the risk of sudden price spikes that could ripple through transportation, manufacturing, and daily life. The action reflects a responsive stance to evolving market conditions and the government’s willingness to deploy export controls to dampen price pressure at home.
Ministerial decisions also established that the temporary export restrictions would not apply to member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) or to humanitarian aid shipments. This carve-out recognizes the need to maintain certain regional and international support channels while safeguarding domestic energy security. The policy framework illustrates a nuanced approach to energy policy that seeks to reconcile domestic price stability with regional cooperation and aid commitments during a period of global energy market volatility.
Earlier statements from President Vladimir Putin acknowledged concerns about the effectiveness of measures aimed at lowering fuel prices. The remarks suggest a leadership perspective that emphasizes ongoing evaluation of policy outcomes and the possibility of adjusting instruments in response to market reactions and broader economic pressures. The dialogue between government officials and the presidency signals a coordinated effort to navigate complex energy dynamics while steering domestic outcomes toward steadier, more predictable pricing for Russian consumers and industries alike.