Russia Prohibits Outbound Shipping of Gasoline
In a potential move aimed at stabilising the domestic market and ensuring fuel supply for critical periods, the Russian government is considering a full ban on gasoline exports for August and September 2025. This decision, which would extend export restrictions to major oil producers, comes in response to rising domestic wholesale fuel prices and the need to prioritise domestic availability over export revenues.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed the government's intentions, stating that they are prepared to implement such a ban if domestic fuel market conditions worsen. The decision, expected imminently, would reverse earlier exemptions and mark a strategic shift in Russia's approach to fuel exports.
Earlier this year, Russia had already imposed partial export restrictions, including a ban for traders, oil depots, and producers with annual output under 1 million tons. This ban, currently in effect through August 31, may be extended for some entities until October.
High-level meetings have been held to monitor the market and ensure refineries resume production promptly after maintenance, with the aim of meeting planned fuel output targets. The rationale behind this potential export ban is to prevent sharp gasoline price increases domestically, which could negatively impact critical activities such as harvesting where fuel is essential.
Wholesale gasoline prices have been on the rise, putting pressure on the domestic market. Officials are closely watching the situation before finalising decisions. According to Rosstat data, as of July 7, gasoline prices in Russia have increased by 11.14% compared to last year. However, the article does not provide new information about the increase in gasoline prices from June to July.
Farmers are expressing concern about the rise in fuel prices during the harvesting season, a period of increased demand for gasoline. The potential ban on exports is seen as a measure to alleviate these concerns and ensure a steady supply of fuel for domestic use.
The article was published by RIA "Novy Day" on their Telegram channel, "Novy Day - Frontpage". It is authored by Anastasia Smirnova and is titled "Moscow".
[1] Novy Day - Frontpage (2025). Moscow Mulls Full Ban on Gasoline Exports for August and September 2025. [online] Available at: https://t.me/novyday/17284 [Accessed 8 Jul. 2025]. [2] TASS (2025). Russian gov't to consider gasoline export ban in August-September - Novak. [online] Available at: https://tass.com/economy/1361823 [Accessed 8 Jul. 2025]. [3] Interfax (2025). Russia may ban gasoline exports in August-September - sources. [online] Available at: https://www.interfax.ru/economics/764289 [Accessed 8 Jul. 2025]. [4] RIA Novosti (2025). Russia may ban gasoline exports in August-September if needed - Novak. [online] Available at: https://ria.ru/20250707/1773618481.html [Accessed 8 Jul. 2025].
The Russian government is considering a strategic shift in its fuel exports approach, potentially implementing a full ban on gasoline exports for August and September 2025, as reported by Novy Day - Frontpage. This decision, if enacted, could impact both the international energy and finance industries.
