Russia Allows Lower-Emission Gasoline Sales Until July 2027 Amid Fuel Crisis

The Russian government adopted a resolution on August 5, 2026, permitting the production, import, and sale of Euro-2, Euro-3, and Euro-4 gasoline until July 1, 2027. The measure replaces a previous decision that allowed higher-sulfur K5-class gasoline circulation until the end of 2026. Gas stations must display information about the environmental class of fuel sold, enabling consumers to make informed choices.

The Energy Ministry characterized the decision as temporary and anti-crisis in nature, aimed at ensuring stable domestic fuel supply and preventing shortages. Officials stated the measure does not represent a revision of Russia's long-term environmental policy for motor fuel, but rather addresses immediate logistical and technological constraints affecting fuel market operations.

Russia has experienced fuel shortages since early June 2026, attributed in part to Ukrainian drone strikes on petroleum refineries and fuel infrastructure. The relaxation allows additional volumes of lower-emission gasoline to reach the domestic market, reducing supply disruption risks. Euro-2 gasoline sales were banned in Russia in 2013. Euro-2 and Euro-3 fuel contain significantly higher sulfur and aromatic hydrocarbon levels compared to modern Euro-5 standards, raising environmental and health concerns according to environmental experts.