Translated with AI
The situation in Kazakhstan's domestic fuel and lubricants market remains stable, and there are no grounds for a fuel shortage. This was reported by the country's Ministry of Energy in response to media reports and social media posts about a possible fuel crisis.
Advisor to the Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Energy, Asel Serikpayeva, emphasized that Kazakhstan is fully self-sufficient in its primary fuels through domestic production. Current gasoline and diesel reserves cover the country's needs, including seasonal increases in consumption.
"To protect the domestic market, the ban on the export of fuel and lubricants by road remains in effect. Border controls have been strengthened, and the Ministry of Energy is monitoring the situation in the regions daily and is prepared to reallocate resources, if necessary, to ensure uninterrupted supplies," Serikpaeva noted.
Media reports previously warned of the risk of gasoline shortages this fall. Among the reasons cited were the illegal export of fuel to neighboring countries, primarily Russia, where the fuel crisis is worsening. Oil and gas analyst Nurlan Zhumagulov noted the widespread illegal trade in Kazakhstani gasoline along highways. Expert Olzhas Baidildinov added that fuel smuggling is thriving due to the significant price differential with neighboring countries, as gasoline in Kazakhstan remains the cheapest in the EAEU.
A potential shortage due to scheduled maintenance at the Atyrau Oil Refinery from October 1 to 25 was also considered. The Ministry of Energy assured that the maintenance has been factored into the production and distribution balance, and the required volumes are being compensated by deliveries from other refineries. Major gas station chains confirm sufficient reserves and regular deliveries.
However, some media reports indicated a localized gasoline shortage in Uralsk and a price increase for AI-92 gasoline. The Ministry of Energy emphasized that this does not indicate a nationwide shortage and is under its control.
