Russia allows import and sale of lower-grade gasoline amid fuel shortage

Russia’s government has authorized the production, import, and sale of lower-grade gasoline classified as “Euro-2,” “Euro-3,” and “Euro-4” until July 1, 2027, according to a statement from the Energy Ministry on its Telegram channel. Filling stations will now be required to display the environmental class of the fuel they sell, providing consumers with information to make informed decisions when purchasing fuel.

The move is seen as temporary and aimed at ensuring a stable supply of automotive fuel to meet domestic demand and prevent a potential shortage. The government clarified that this relaxation does not signal a change in their long-term environmental policies for motor fuel, emphasizing that the measures are a short-term response to the ongoing fuel crisis.

The crisis has persisted for over two months, with gasoline shortages at filling stations exacerbated by repeated Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil refineries, leading to temporary shutdowns in fuel production. It is noteworthy that the sale of “Euro-2” gasoline and diesel, which are more polluting and less suitable for modern vehicles, was prohibited in Russia starting in 2013.