The Russian government has extended the temporary restriction on gasoline exports through January 31, 2025, a step described in official statements by the Council of Ministers’ office. The extension keeps a carveout for supplies carried out by producers of petroleum products, meaning refiners continuing to ship their own products to domestic buyers won’t be blocked. The decision sits within a broader aim to ensure stable fuel availability for Russian consumers and industrial users, especially as seasonal demand shifts and refinery utilization patterns come under scrutiny. Government sources emphasize that this policy is designed to prevent domestic shortages and to smooth price fluctuations in the domestic market while the state monitors global supply conditions.
The measure follows an earlier timetable where the gasoline export ban was first set to run from March 1 to August 31 and later extended from September 1 to the end of 2024. Officials stated then that the continuation of restrictions would be evaluated in the light of domestic inventory levels, refinery throughput, and overall market balance. The new extension underscores a continued precautionary stance by authorities as they assess whether export volumes might otherwise tighten domestic supplies or push prices higher at a time of rising demand.
Yuri Stankevich, who has served as Deputy Chairman of the Energy Committee in the State Duma, warned that domestic fuel prices are likely to climb further in 2025. In his assessment, market pressures from production costs, currency movements, and sustained demand could push prices up, even as producers adjust supply strategies to navigate the export restrictions. The prognosis reflects a cautious outlook among policymakers and industry observers about the balance between keeping fuel affordable for households and maintaining export discipline.
Trade data indicate that mid-November wholesale gasoline prices rose by between 3.5 percent and 5 percent week over week, with the price reaching 61,932 rubles per ton on November 15. Analysts monitor these figures closely as they factor into policy decisions and consumer expectations.
Earlier in the year, several experts cautioned about year-end price movements, noting that global oil markets, currency trends, and domestic demand could drive additional changes. The current policy position, while aimed at stabilizing the home market, remains sensitive to shifts in external conditions and to how producers adapt to the restriction on outbound shipments.
Overall, the export restriction represents a tool for balancing domestic energy security with export logistics. Officials argue the measures help avert shortages and support predictable pricing for businesses and households, while acknowledging possible effects on export revenue and refining margins. The situation remains under close watch as authorities evaluate market signals and adjust the policy as needed.