The Russian fuel sector is encountering significant challenges, leading operators to close numerous stations across the country. The scale of closures is unprecedented in recent years, prompting experts to liken the current situation to the most severe crises in the nation’s history.
In the first eight months of this year, operators have either ceased operations or closed for renovations at 322 fuel sales points nationwide. According to the Russian newspaper “Izvestia,” this marks a 70% increase compared to the same period last year. However, these closures represent a small fraction of the market, affecting only 1.2% of the total 28,400 stations operating in the country.
Large Networks Shut Over 100 Locations
Large independent fuel enterprises, including Gazoyl, Rosgaz, Zvezda, Tamic Energy, and MMK Petrol, have been hit hardest, with 105 stations closing. Medium and small networks have closed 69 and 82 locations, respectively. Even vertically integrated oil and gas companies, such as Lukoil, Tatneft, Gazpromneft, NNK, Rosneft, Surgutneftegaz, and Gazprom, had to temporarily shut down 67 of their points.
214 Stations Under Renovation Since 2025
Additionally, 214 stations remain inactive due to renovations that started last year. The ongoing crisis has compelled authorities to extend the ban on the export of gasoline and diesel fuel until January 31, 2027.
Media outlets in Russia describe the current situation as the most serious fuel crisis since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The refining industry is operating at significantly reduced capacity, with over 30% of actual processing capacities and 45% of nominal capacities at Russian petrochemical plants being taken offline.
Despite these profound structural issues, fuel prices in the country have decreased. Press reports suggest that this phenomenon may be linked to visits by high-ranking federal officials to various regions.
