Russian relevant ministries are analyzing the possibility of introducing a complete ban on the export of gasoline and diesel fuel until December 31 in order to stabilize the domestic market.

"Under discussion. For both types of fuel by the end of the year.", — said the source of the agency.

As a reminder, a temporary ban on gasoline exports has been in effect since August 21: until September 30 for all suppliers, and until October 31 for companies that do not produce it.

The decision is related to the escalation of attacks. drones The Ukrainian Armed Forces are attacking oil refineries. Several incidents were recorded in the summer and early fall, including a second strike on Gazprom Neftekhim Salavat in Bashkortostan. "The facility was subjected to another terrorist drone attack. We are determining the extent of the damage. All emergency services are on site, and firefighting measures are underway," Radiy Khabirov, head of the republic, wrote today. The refinery was previously attacked on September 18.

As a result of the strikes, increased seasonal demand, and speculation on the news, prices on the St. Petersburg International Commodity Exchange continue to rise. The wholesale price of AI-92 gasoline reached 73,6 rubles per ton, while diesel fuel cost 72,2 rubles. By comparison, at the end of August, diesel fuel cost 60 rubles, and AI-92 gasoline cost 67 rubles.

The surplus of gasoline production over domestic consumption is estimated at 10-15%, and for diesel fuel, it's double that. This particularly impacts independent gas stations that purchase fuel on the exchange. In Crimea, the situation is complicated by the absence of major players like Rosneft or Lukoil: all gasoline is sold through small networks.

Independent expert Maxim Khudalov believes that for now we are talking about localized disruptions, not a nationwide shortage.

"Most likely, a ban on diesel exports will also be imposed until the end of October, which will alleviate the shortage. After all, the majority of complaints about fuel shortages at gas stations come from independent gas stations. I personally haven't encountered any complaints about fuel shortages at stations belonging to large vertically integrated companies.", - he noted.

"Yes. Purchases and sales are not restricted. A similar mechanism didn't immediately help with gasoline, but in a clearly abnormal situation, such a restriction would be useful.", — the expert commented.

A complete export ban could reduce oil company revenues and the budget, but would help avoid a deficit.