England — The United Kingdom has raised concerns over the possibility of the United States restricting diesel exports, warning that a major reduction in American supplies could affect Britain and the wider European fuel market.
UK warns of possible impact
Speaking at Labour’s annual party conference in Liverpool on Sunday, UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said a full U.S. diesel export ban would be “a significant concern” for the UK.
Reynolds said Britain benefits from a “diverse supply” of fuel, but stressed that there is a need to distinguish between statements about possible restrictions and what the United States actually proposes or implements.
“Clearly something like that … would be a significant concern to the U.K.,” Reynolds said.
US is a major diesel supplier
The United States has become an important source of diesel for Britain. UK government data shows that the U.S. accounted for 35.5% of UK diesel imports in 2024.
Britain's dependence on imported fuel increased after it stopped importing Russian oil following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Russia had previously supplied a significant share of UK diesel.
The UK’s domestic refining capacity has also declined over several decades. Britain had around 18 refineries in the 1970s, compared with four major operating refineries today: Fawley, Humber, Pembroke and Stanlow.
Europe also watching US policy
The issue extends beyond the UK. The European Commission said the United States supplied around half of EU diesel imports in August.
EU spokesperson Olof Gill warned that any disruption could negatively affect both the European Union and the United States.
French President Emmanuel Macron has also urged the U.S. against introducing restrictions, arguing that such a decision would be harmful to both the global economy and the U.S. economy.
No US ban currently in place
Reports from the United States have suggested possible measures ranging from a 90-day diesel export ban to more limited voluntary restrictions. The discussions are taking place amid high U.S. diesel prices and ahead of the November midterm elections.
However, no U.S. diesel export ban has been implemented as of September 28, 2026.
The UK and European authorities are continuing to monitor developments in Washington because of the significant role of U.S. diesel supplies in European fuel markets.
——— End of Article ———
