New analysis shows Russia’s oil export activity at a low point not seen in over a year, driven by robust domestic demand across sectors. This assessment draws on Vortexa’s data for August 1 to August 20 and has been reflected in recent Bloomberg reporting. The picture suggests a tightening of Russia’s export flows even as global markets adapt to shifting demand patterns.
According to the data, shipments of petroleum products from the Russian Federation declined by about 14 percent during the period, with the daily volume of crude and related fuels averaging roughly 2.24 million barrels. That level marks the lowest since May of the previous year, according to the data utility cited by Bloomberg. The trend hints at a combination of supply adjustments and changing international demand that influenced overall export throughput.
Within this context, supplies of diesel fuel and kerosene—together accounting for roughly 45 percent of Russia’s oil exports—fell below the one million barrels per day mark. This shift highlights how high-demand transportation fuels are tightening the country’s export mix and weighting the market toward other product streams or destinations.
Similarly, gasoline and related components experienced a significant drop, with volumes retreating by about 43 percent to around 66,000 barrels per day. The decline in these refined products points to a recalibration of processing or shipment priorities, and could reflect substitutions in domestic use or alternative export routes.
Aggregate fuel exports from Russia dropped to about 624,000 barrels per day, the agency notes. This figure represents a new low not seen since March of the prior year, underscoring the ongoing volatility in the country’s energy export landscape amid evolving global trade dynamics.
Meanwhile, insurance providers have begun briefing charterers about higher additional premiums for oil shipments routed through the Black Sea. The policy shift signals heightened risk assessments tied to regional security and logistical considerations that can affect the cost and reliability of maritime transport in the area.
In another layer of market movement, it has been observed that major buyers in Asia—regions including India and China—are moderating their purchases of Russian and Saudi oil. This shift reflects a broader recalibration of supply sources in response to price signals, geopolitical developments, and the pursuit of diversified energy portfolios by those economies.