MOKSHINO,Tver Region — Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced on July 10 that the government has implemented a complete ban on gasoline and diesel exports. This decision aims to stabilize the domestic fuel market amid ongoing shortages exacerbated by drone attacks from Ukraine targeting oil refineries.
Novak explained that export restrictions are necessary to ensure the availability of fuel for the domestic market . He stated,"We have temporarily banned the export of gasoline and diesel fuel to make sure the domestic market is supplied . And this is all being done to stabilize situation." government is also working to increase fuel supplies across various regions of Russia.
Despite the current challenges,Novak emphasized that Russia possesses adequate fuel refining capacity . He remarked,"It's clear that we have sufficient capacity. Overall,we are fully supplied. We even export." The government is committed to maximizing refinery output to meet domestic demand,with Novak asserting, "We are doing everything,the government is doing everything, to ensure capacity is utilized and production is sufficient."
However, the Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged that the situation has led to some resellers exploiting shortages to inflate prices . He noted,"I would like to point out that, in these times of shortages,speculative factors often arise, with some resellers trying to exploit this situation to make extra money and raise prices." To combat this,Novak called for vigilant oversight from the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) to monitor fuel prices closely.
Queues at gas stations have become more common,as fuel market grapples with disruptions. Novak attributed these issues to fact that several refineries are partially out of service due to the drone strikes. He stated,"We must acknowledge that [the fuel market] is experiencing problems and shortages,which is why we are seeing queues. Sometimes gas stations are experiencing disruptions. shortage [has arisen] for obvious reasons, because our refineries are partially out of service due to drone strikes."
In response to these challenges,the government is taking steps to enhance the security of oil refineries. Novak assured reporters,"Nevertheless, we are doing everything possible to strengthen security of our refineries." This proactive approach aims to mitigate further disruptions and ensure a steady supply of fuel for the Russian populace.
