Trump Still Weighing Diesel Export Ban

US President Donald Trump said on September 30 that he has not yet made a final decision on a potential ban on diesel exports. According to Politico, the idea has faced significant pushback in recent days from oil and gas industry representatives as well as from Trump's own advisers.

The White House is under growing pressure to act to bring down record-high diesel prices ahead of the midterm elections. In late September, Trump signaled he was open to restricting diesel exports, but administration and industry figures have warned that such a move would raise prices for all fuel types, including gasoline, and have been seeking alternative solutions.

Advisers' views

Speaking to reporters, Trump said he is still thinking it over and has discussed it extensively with Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Both reportedly believe the measure could lower diesel prices while raising the cost of other goods.

Trump expressed optimism about falling prices, citing increased shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz in recent days, but declined to rule out an export ban, saying it is something being considered daily, though it appears it could negatively affect gasoline prices.

Wright, who strongly opposes a diesel export ban and was with Trump at the White House on September 30, said the administration would soon announce measures aimed at lowering diesel prices. Europe is also reportedly planning to announce an action plan to replenish fuel market supplies. The White House is considering asking European countries to tap into their strategic diesel reserves.