Vladimir Putin has signed a law that should add gasoline and diesel fuel to the domestic market. The authorities decided to act in three directions at once: stimulate imports, expand oil refining capabilities, and support plant modernization.
One of the key amendments concerns straight-run gasoline. It is now allowed to be blended with other components to produce high-octane fuel – from AI-92 and above. Such an operation will be considered production, meaning the company can claim damper payments.
A damper is compensation from the state that makes supplies within Russia more profitable than exports. The new law specifically introduces payments for authorized importers of gasoline from EAEU countries and beyond. For fuel not from the EAEU, compensation will be calculated based on the price of AI-92 in India, including delivery to Russia.
Also, large refineries have had their modernization agreement deadlines extended. Amendments related to additional fuel supplies apply to relations from June 1, and changes for plants from January 1, 2026.
The measures were adopted against the backdrop of local gasoline shortages in dozens of regions. The government expects that imports, accumulated reserves, and additional supplies will help stabilize the situation at gas stations.