Iran Confirms Suspension Of Petrol Imports From Russia

Javad Owji, Iran's Minister of Petroleum, has officially confirmed the suspension of gasoline sales to Iran by Russia.

During a cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, Javad Owji said that Iran’s entire supply of gasoline will now be produced and supplied domestically.

These comments confirm Iran International’s report on Tuesday of the cessation of petrol sales to Iran by Russia.

The ministry's initial plan was to import up to 10 million liters of gasoline from Russia on a daily basis to bridge the gap between production and consumption. In February and March, Russia supplied up to 30,000 tons of gasoline and diesel to Iran, Reuters reported.

Minister Owji not only confirmed the suspension of gasoline imports from Russia, but also acknowledged the existing petrol shortage crisis and the extended queues at fuel stations. Despite the shortages, the minister claimed that there is “no problem in gasoline supply" and stated that, "the parliament has ratified in the budget law that individuals are required to utilize their personal cards for refueling."

The result of Russia’s cessation of supply has led to reductions in gasoline shipments to gas stations and long lines forming with cars rushing to fill their tanks. It has also led to the emergence of a black market for gasoline at significantly inflated prices