Kazakhstan extends ban on fuel exports amid resource shortages
Kazakhstan Extends Ban on Gasoline and Diesel Export, Restricts Apple Imports
The Kazakh government has announced the extension of the ban on the export of gasoline, diesel fuel, and certain types of petroleum products via road transport. This decision comes after a meeting on August 27, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Serik Jumangarin.
Initially imposed in November 2019 to combat excessive exports, restrictions on petroleum product exports were lifted but later reintroduced in July 2022 for a six-month period. The ban has since been extended multiple times, impacting exports to Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia.
In addition to the fuel export ban, Kazakhstan will also restrict apple imports by road from third countries until the end of the year. However, imports from countries within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) will be exempt from this restriction. The EAEU includes Armenia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia, with Uzbekistan holding observer status.
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture forecasts a total apple harvest of 300,000 tons this year, enabled by state-supported horticulture efforts. By 2024, the country’s apple orchards are expected to be fully productive, increasing yield by 18% to meet domestic market demands.
Following a request from orchardists and in light of a successful harvest, the government has implemented the temporary import ban on apples. This measure aims to help sell the majority of the crop produced this year.
According to Kazakhstan’s Bureau of Statistics, from January to March, Uzbekistan exported 639.1 tons of apples worth $254,600 to Kazakhstan. In the following months, exports increased significantly, with 7,181.6 tons of apples valued at $2.58 million being exported.
The extension of the export ban and import restrictions demonstrate Kazakhstan’s commitment to regulating fuel exports and supporting domestic agricultural production.
