Russia Temporarily Allows Euro-2 Gasoline as Domestic Fuel Supply Tightens

Lower fuel standards return temporarily

Russia has temporarily authorized the production, import, release and sale of gasoline in the K2, K3 and K4 environmental classes, commonly known as Euro-2, Euro-3 and Euro-4. The exemption, established by government resolution No. 976 dated August 5, 2026, will remain in force until July 1, 2027.

The measure reverses part of the country’s shift toward cleaner road fuels for a limited period. Euro-2 gasoline was produced in Russia until 2013, while the current market has been centered on the higher K5 environmental class. The government says the relaxation does not represent an abandonment of existing environmental policy and that the previous requirements should return after the deadline.

Supply security drives the decision

Russia’s Energy Ministry said the authorization was needed to maintain stable supplies to the domestic market and reduce the risk of fuel shortages. The ministry identified changes in logistics chains and technological constraints as factors affecting availability. Allowing refineries and suppliers to place additional grades on the market is intended to increase accessible volumes and limit disruptions.

The decision covers domestic production as well as imports, market release and subsequent circulation. That scope gives refiners, fuel wholesalers and importers more options for filling regional supply gaps. However, the source material does not provide estimates of the additional production capacity, import volumes or retail price effects expected from the measure.

Fuel stations must display the environmental class of gasoline in a visible and accessible form. Drivers should therefore be able to determine before refueling whether a product is classified as K2, K3, K4 or K5. Clear labeling will be particularly important if different grades are sold alongside one another during the temporary regime.

Modern vehicles face compatibility risks

Automotive expert Igor Morzharetto told Aif.ru that Euro-2 gasoline is produced under older standards and contains substantially more sulfur than modern fuel. K2 gasoline may contain up to 500 mg/kg of sulfur and up to 5% benzene. Monomethylaniline may also be present at a volume share of up to 1.3%.

Morzharetto said the fuel is better suited to older vehicle designs, including classic Zhiguli cars and older Opel models. Owners of modern vehicles should instead follow the fuel-quality requirements specified by the manufacturer. Engines, injection equipment and exhaust after-treatment systems designed for a higher environmental class may not be suitable for regular use of Euro-2 gasoline.

The temporary authorization consequently creates a trade-off between fuel availability and product quality. Refiners and distributors gain flexibility to supply the domestic market, while filling-station operators must distinguish the grades clearly. For motorists and fleet managers, the environmental label and the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications become essential purchasing criteria until the K2-K4 exemption expires.