Kazakhstan's Gasoline Exports to Uzbekistan Surge 5.5x Amid Central Asian Demand Growth

Kazakhstan has recorded unprecedented growth in gasoline exports to Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries over the past year, according to official statistics. The country exported 214,800 tons of gasoline worth $139.4 million, a 5.7-fold increase compared to the same period in the previous year.

Key Export Markets

• Uzbekistan emerged as the largest buyer, with exports rising 5.5 times to 119,600 tons.
• Kyrgyzstan imported 57,500 tons for the first time since 2022.
• Afghanistan and Tajikistan saw a 43.4x and 14.2x increase in volumes, respectively, with 21,500 tons and 16,100 tons shipped.

Analysts note that this surge stems from Central Asian nations replacing supplies previously sourced from Russia. However, the rapid export growth has intensified pressure on Kazakhstan's domestic fuel balance, as refineries operate at full capacity. Authorities are closely monitoring inventories of AI-92 and AI-95 gasoline to prevent shortages and price volatility.

Experts caution that if export volumes continue to outpace domestic needs, Kazakhstan's Ministry of Energy may reconsider export quotas or reimpose temporary restrictions on light petroleum products to stabilize the local market.

Source: Trend News Agency