The Russian government last week introduced an unprecedented temporary ban on diesel and gasoline exports in response to what is probably Russia's worst domestic motor fuels crisis in more than a decade. It is not unusual for Russia's motor fuels market to experience problems during the peak summer demand period. But the situation has been far worse this summer than in previous years - wholesale A-92 gasoline prices have increased by more than 50pc since April, while diesel and A-95 gasoline prices are up by almost as much, according to St Petersburg's Spimex exchange. Gasoline prices were initially the main cause for concern, with the government repeatedly warning refiners of the need to keep them in check. But regional diesel shortages have emerged since August, particularly in southern Russia, where late summer always brings a demand surge in the agricultural sector.
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