Kyrgyzstan Gasoline Shortage Raises Smuggling Risk For Kazakhstan

Kyrgyzstan is facing shortages of Ai-95 and Ai-98 gasoline after reduced supplies from Russia and a seasonal rise in demand, Orda.kz reports, citing oilgazKZ.

For Kazakhstan, the shortage could increase the risk of illegal fuel exports across the border.

Kanatbek Eshatov, head of the Association of Oil Traders of Kyrgyzstan, confirmed the disruptions. He said operators are already working to stabilize the situation.

There are disruptions with Ai-95 and Ai-98. Operators are working to stabilize the situation,Eshatov said.

Kyrgyzstan depends on Russia for almost 90% of its oil product imports. According to traders’ estimates, in January–May 2026, the country imported more than 251,000 tons of motor gasoline, 235,150 tons of diesel fuel and 48,150 tons of aviation kerosene from Russia.

Industry media link the shortage to Russia’s own fuel problems. OilgazKZ also suggested that Kazakhstan’s ban on gasoline exports could create incentives for smuggling.

Kazakhstan has banned the road export of gasoline and diesel until November 21, 2026, including to countries of the Eurasian Economic Union.

Original author: Alexander Zhdanov

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