Arabic version: بريطانيا تستعد لاحتمال حظر أميركي على صادرات الديزل

According to BBC News, the UK is talking to US authorities about a possible halt to diesel exports and has begun preparing for a ban. Chancellor John Healey said the government was making provisions because the UK has its own stocks, while working closely with the Americans.

US President Donald Trump has said he is seriously considering banning diesel exports. US sources suggest the measure is being considered to lower prices for domestic consumers before the critical midterm elections. The UK relies on the US for around a third of its diesel imports, meaning an export ban could push British prices higher.

Average UK diesel prices reached 199.33p per litre on Monday, RAC figures showed, exceeding the previous record of 199.09p set in June 2022 after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Petrol was priced at 174.23p per litre. The RAC said diesel prices had entered “uncharted territory” and highlighted the UK’s exposure to events far beyond its borders.

Supply pressures have been linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran and Russia’s war with Ukraine. Over the past seven months, the Iran war has severely disrupted regional production and transport of wholesale oil, lifting prices for oil-based fuels. Healey said a diplomatic settlement and an end to fighting with Iran would significantly ease the situation.

Healey said he was aware of the cost-of-living pressure as he prepared a “breathing space” Budget for 28 October. The fuel-duty freeze introduced in 2022 is due to end this year, with duty scheduled to rise by 3p in January and another 2p in March.