Russian Deputy PM Novak says ban on exporting gasoline could be lifted if surplus arises; current task is to supply domestic market
MOSCOW. Sept 26 (Interfax) - The ban on exporting gasoline from Russia could be lifted if a supply surplus arises on the domestic market, though the current task is to meet domestic demand, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told reporters on the sidelines of Russian Energy Week.
"Exports are always permitted if there is a surplus of the product on the domestic market. For example, we do not have a ban on exporting diesel fuel, because there is a surplus, and it is sold on both the domestic market and for export. Why are exports currently closed namely for gasoline? The main task is to supply the domestic market," Novak said.
Novak also said that the situation is currently stable on Russia's fuel market.
"The market is fully supplied with the necessary volumes of gasoline and diesel fuel. We do not see any situations where that would cause concern. There are currently sufficient petroleum products on the exchange and stable prices at filling stations," Novak said.
Novak emphasized that the relevant agencies are continuing to oversee the situation on the fuel market, and executive meetings are being held jointly with oil companies.
Novak also emphasized that, according to his information, the previously damaged unit at the Moscow Oil Refinery, as well as the unit after the accident at the Omsk Oil Refinery, have relaunched operations.