Kazakhstan to extend fuel export restrictions

The government of Kazakhstan plans to extend the restriction on the export of gasoline and diesel fuel from the country by another six months. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

According to the draft resolution prepared by the Ministry of Energy, this measure is aimed at ensuring stability in the domestic market and preventing fuel shortages. As stated in the document, the restriction on fuel exports to member states of the Eurasian Economic Union may continue from November 2026 until the end of May 2027.

For other foreign countries, the restrictions are expected to remain in effect during the first half of 2027. The mentioned limitation will apply not only to traditional types of fuel but also to other petroleum products.

Under the new procedure, in addition to gasoline, diesel, and aviation kerosene, the export of fuel oil, light distillates, bitumen, as well as toluene and xylene widely used in industry, will be suspended. However, the government has also provided for certain exceptions.

Specifically, these restrictions will not apply to special shipments carried out under international agreements or to cargoes sent as humanitarian aid. This will allow the fulfillment of strategic contracts concluded with neighboring countries.

This is not the first time Kazakhstan has introduced such measures. Previously, exports were restricted several times to prevent sharp price increases in the domestic market and to ensure affordable fuel for farmers and industrial enterprises.

According to the current procedure, the export of petroleum products is monitored not only by road transport but also by rail. Recently, there have been various reports that Russia is studying the possibility of purchasing gasoline from Kazakhstan.

However, Kazakh officials emphasize that so far, no official request has been received from the neighboring country. This situation once again highlights the importance of maintaining energy security and fuel balance in the region.