MOSCOW: The Russian government has formally announced a complete ban on petrol exports, aiming to stabilize domestic fuel prices and ensure sufficient supply within the country.
The restriction will come into effect on April 1, 2026, and is expected to remain in place until July 31, 2026.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated that the decision has been taken in the interest of protecting domestic consumers and maintaining market balance.
He focused on that the move is part of broader efforts to shield the local economy from price volatility and to secure adequate fuel availability during a period of increased demand.
Russia typically experiences a surge in petrol consumption during the agricultural season, when farming activities intensify across the country. In addition, scheduled maintenance at oil refineries often limits production capacity during this time, further tightening supply.
Russia is among the world’s largest oil producers, and its decisions regarding energy exports often have global implications.
The government has not indicated whether the ban will be extended beyond July, stating that future decisions will depend on market conditions and domestic supply levels. For now, the move underscores Russia’s focus on prioritizing internal economic stability amid fluctuating global energy dynamics.
