Why Cheap Kazakh Gasoline Is Becoming a Regional Issue
Illustration: envato
Kazakhstan’s cheap gasoline is attracting interest from neighboring countries, where fuel prices are much higher, Orda.kz reports, citing Energyprom.kz.
According to GlobalPetrolPrices, a liter of AI-95 gasoline in Kazakhstan cost $0.687 as of July 6, 2026, compared with the global average of $1.47. In nearby countries, the same fuel costs about $0.94 in Russia and Belarus, $1.016 in Kyrgyzstan, $1.136 in China and $1.342 in Uzbekistan.
Low prices benefit drivers but create an incentive to take fuel across the border and resell it. Because of this, Kazakhstan continues to restrict informal fuel exports.
The Energy Ministry has extended a temporary ban on road exports of gasoline, diesel and some petroleum products from May 21 to November 21, 2026, including to EAEU countries. Another extension, until May 2027, is already being prepared.
Border rules have also been tightened. Vehicles from neighboring countries can now enter Kazakhstan no more than once a day.
In January–May 2026, Kazakhstan produced 2.5 million tons of gasoline, 1.8 % less than a year earlier. Domestic refineries still cover almost all demand, while imports remain minimal.
Fuel prices are also rising inside the country. In June, gasoline became 1.1 % more expensive month-on-month. Over the year, prices increased by 15.6 %, with the sharpest rise recorded in Pavlodar Region.
The situation in Russia is adding pressure to the regional market. Fuel prices at some independent gas stations there exceeded 100 rubles per liter for the first time, while Kyrgyzstan has already asked several countries, including Kazakhstan, for help with stable supplies.
Kazakhstan now has enough fuel for its domestic market, but the price gap with neighboring countries is pushing authorities to keep export bans and tighter border controls in place.
Original author: Ilya Astakhov
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