Russia to extend its petrol export ban until end of 2026, lift diesel export ban as market recovers - deputy PM

OMSK. July 27 (Interfax) - The Russian petrol export ban will be extended until the end of this year, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told journalists on Saturday.

"In regard to the petrol export ban, at a headquarters [meeting] we also made a decision to extend it both for producers and non-producers, i.e. it will be extended until the end of year," Novak said.

As for the diesel export ban, it will be lifted "as the market recovers," to prevent oil refining plants from having surplus issues and smaller volumes to refine, he said.

Once domestic supply is ensured, it will be important for Russia to export diesel fuel to ensure its plants are fully loaded, he said.

Earlier he said that Russia this summer was experiencing disruptions in fuel supplies caused by changes in logistics. The government has taken a series of measures to improve the situation, including by banning petrol and diesel fuel exports. The current fuel export ban expires on July 31.