At the meeting, various ways to ensure the domestic fuel market were discussed, including the possibility of a complete export ban affecting both traders and oil refineries, according to sources from "Vedomosti".
Reasons for Returning to the Ban
In March, there was a significant increase in prices on the fuel exchange:
- gasoline rose by 16%,
- diesel fuel — by 22%.
Retail prices also increased by 2.78% by March 23, which is almost comparable to the official inflation rate.
Previously, a similar complete ban was in effect from August 31, 2025, to February 1, 2026. After its cancellation, exports were resumed, but in March of this year, problems arose in the market again.
Experts' Opinions
The introduction of a complete embargo may help slow down further increases in exchange prices and reduce the rate of price increases at gas stations. However, specialists do not predict a significant decrease in fuel prices.
Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Energy Yuri Stankevich characterized such a ban as an "emergency response tool." He noted that this measure allows for a quick resolution of current problems but does not eliminate the fundamental shortcomings in the industry.
Dmitry Gusev from the "Reliable Partner" Association warns of possible negative consequences:
- a decrease in trust in Russia as a reliable fuel supplier on the international stage;
- a decline in interest in investments in oil refining.
Steps Towards Long-term Stability
Experts unanimously agree that frequent bans are not an optimal solution. To ensure the sustainability of the fuel market, they recommend focusing on:
- deepening oil processing;
- accelerated modernization of oil refineries;
- creating stable and predictable tax conditions for the industry.
At present, a complete ban on gasoline exports is a temporary measure that can mitigate sharp price fluctuations but does not eliminate systemic risks.
This means that drivers should not expect a sharp drop in prices at gas stations; however, the introduction of a complete ban may prevent a more serious increase in fuel prices in the coming months.
