Russia Considers Lifting Ban on Gasoline Exports

The Russian news agency "Interfax" reported on Wednesday that Russian Energy Minister Nikolai Shulginov stated that the country is "considering lifting the ban on the export of certain grades of gasoline." Shulginov pointed out that discussions are currently underway regarding the lifting of the ban on 92 and 95 octane gasoline. Officials have indicated that "the ban will be lifted once the domestic market stabilizes." Analysts anticipate that the restrictions may be lifted after the recent completion of the grain harvest season. Russia imposed a ban on fuel exports on September 21 to limit rising domestic prices and a fuel shortage. The government eased restrictions on October 6, allowing the export of diesel via pipeline, but kept the measures relating to gasoline exports unchanged.