Russia Announces Gasoline Export Ban From April 1 to Stabilise Domestic Market

MOSCOW, March 27, 2026 – The Russian government said on March 27 it will impose a temporary ban on gasoline exports starting April 1, aiming to prioritise domestic supply and curb rising fuel prices amid heightened global market volatility.

The decision followed a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, who instructed the Energy Ministry to prepare a formal resolution implementing the measure, according to an official government statement.

Temporary measure

The export restrictions are expected to remain in place until July 31, according to TASS, citing sources familiar with the matter. The government said it was paying "particular attention" to President Vladimir Putin’s directive to keep domestic fuel prices within forecast levels.

Novak said ongoing tensions in the Middle East had contributed to increased volatility in global oil and refined product markets. "While external demand for Russian energy remains strong, immediate action is required to prevent price increases at petrol stations," he said.

Supply conditions

The Energy Ministry said refinery output remains in line with March 2026 levels, adding that oil companies maintain sufficient gasoline and diesel reserves alongside high refinery utilisation rates to meet domestic demand.

Market context

Russia has previously introduced temporary restrictions on fuel exports to stabilise its domestic market. The latest move comes as international oil prices have risen in recent weeks, driven by geopolitical tensions as well as tightening supply conditions and seasonal demand factors.

Several countries have introduced subsidies or tax reductions to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs on consumers.

Market implications

Analysts say the export ban could tighten gasoline supply in regional markets, particularly in countries such as Kazakhstan and Mongolia that rely on Russian fuel imports. A prolonged restriction could place upward pressure on regional prices, even if Russia’s domestic supply remains stable.

The Kremlin has not yet disclosed detailed data on gasoline inventories or projected domestic demand for the second quarter of 2026.