Russia is discussing the possibility of importing petrol from Kazakhstan amid a reduction in its own fuel production. The discussion involves approximately 50,000 tonnes of AI-92 petrol, but a formal request has not yet been made to the Kazakh side.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE NEGOTIATIONS
According to Reuters, citing four industry sources, Russia is discussing with Kazakhstan the import of around 50,000 tonnes of AI-92 petrol. The agency reports that these supplies are being considered as one way to alleviate fuel shortages on the domestic market.
Russia's Ministry of Energy did not comment on this information. Meanwhile, Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov previously stated that Kazakhstan had not received an official request from Moscow regarding petrol supplies.
WHY THE NEED FOR IMPORTS AROSE
The disruptions are linked to the shutdown of several large oil refineries in central Russia following drone attacks, as well as unscheduled maintenance. According to the agency, by the end of June 2026, petrol production had fallen by approximately 25% compared to the same period last year.
It is reported that Russian authorities are considering various measures to stabilise the market, including restrictions on fuel exports, increased subsidies for oil refineries, and possible petrol imports.
WHAT CAPACITY DOES KAZAKHSTAN HAVE
Sources believe that the volume of any potential supplies from Kazakhstan is unlikely to be significant, as the country produces substantially less fuel than Russia.
At the same time, the publication notes that Kazakhstan currently has a petrol surplus. However, planned maintenance at the Atyrau Oil Refinery from 26 June to 20 July could reduce available fuel stocks.
Among the potential suppliers, sources mention the Kondensat plant, which processes gas condensate from the Russian TANECO refinery. However, the article states that TANECO completely halted oil processing on 12 June after a drone attack, which could potentially affect the supply of raw materials to the Kondensat facility.
WHAT ELSE IS KNOWN
One source in Kazakhstan suggested that petrol supplies to Russia could be discussed in exchange for Russian aviation fuel. It was previously reported that in July 2026, Kazakhstan could face a shortage of aviation fuel due to rising demand, maintenance at the Atyrau Refinery, and reduced imports from Russia.
As Reuters notes, Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia are members of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which provides for duty-free supplies of hydrocarbons between member states and the annual coordination of indicative fuel trade balances.
