Russia's EAEU partners can import fuel duty-free, but supplies from Russia still more profitable - Dep PM Overchuk

MOSCOW. Aug 18 (Interfax) - The fuel situation in Russia's partner countries in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) is being eased by the decision to temporarily zero out duties on imports from third countries, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk told reporters.

But he said that despite this concession, importing fuel from other countries was less profitable for EAEU countries than supplies from Russia.

"Indeed, this is the case. We have eliminated customs duties and reduced import duties on fuel to zero within the Eurasian Economic Union. Today, countries can purchase petroleum products duty-free not only from Russia but also from other countries. But supplies from Russia have always been more profitable, of course," he said, when asked about the impact of problems in the Russian fuel market on fuel supplies to EAEU countries.

The Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) has extended zero import duties on motor gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, marine fuel and other gas oils for one year, until mid-2027. This decision also establishes zero duties on motor gasoline additives. The ordinary duty on these fuels is 5%.