The Russian authorities are reportedly considering a partial reopening of diesel fuel exports. A report in Kommersant, citing unnamed sources, outlines the possibility that diesel shipments may be allowed while other fuels remain restricted.
Current discussions center on permitting only diesel to leave the country through specific export routes. A quota system could be introduced to stabilize fuel markets and limit sudden swings in prices. There are no indications that gasoline exports will be eased at this stage. Insiders cited by Kommersant say that a formal decision could come at the October 4 meeting, which would involve Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak and senior figures from the oil sector.
The plan under consideration would permit diesel to move via Transneft’s Northern and Southern product pipelines. Together, these segments are responsible for roughly three-quarters of Russia’s diesel shipments abroad. Insiders told the newspaper that authorities may ease restrictions because diesel storage capacity within the Transneft system is reaching its limits. The sheer scale of potential volumes makes it impractical to push such amounts into the domestic market, according to the sources. Large oil companies have warned regulators that cutting refinery output could become necessary if stockpiles remain high, a move that would affect not just diesel but also gasoline production.
A Kommersant source with ties to the oil industry noted that the export ban on petroleum products could extend beyond the October window, potentially lasting until October 10. The reluctance to undermine supply abroad reportedly received support from Rosneft, the largest producer in the Russian Federation.
On September 21, the government imposed a temporary restriction on the export of gasoline and diesel fuel. The measure did not apply to international transit shipments, humanitarian aid deliveries under intergovernmental agreements, or the fuel supply to Russian foreign military contingents. The goal, officials stated, was to stabilize domestic fuel prices during a period of market volatility.
Earlier discussions in Russia considered how the prohibition on gasoline and diesel exports might influence the ruble’s exchange rate and broader macroeconomic stability. Analysts warned that any change in export policy could have ripple effects on currency valuations, inflation pressures, and financial sentiment within the oil sector. Market participants continued to monitor official comments and regional indicators as the situation evolved, balancing the need for price controls against the risks of reduced refinery activity and tightened domestic supply. [Kommersant, sources cited]