Kazakhstan Limits Vehicle Entry to Once Daily to Combat Fuel Smuggling

Kazakhstan has implemented a new restriction, limiting vehicle entry into the country to once per day. This measure aims to curb the illicit export of fuel, often referred to as "gray" export, according to Vice Minister of Energy Kairkhan Tutgushbayev.

The restriction applies to both freight and passenger vehicles entering Kazakhstan from neighboring nations. Tutgushbayev highlighted that special attention is being paid to identifying vehicles equipped with additional fuel tanks. Enforcement of this new rule is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Agency for Financial Monitoring, the Border Service, and customs authorities.

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Freight and passenger transport from border countries can enter the territory of Kazakhstan no more than once a day.

Despite the new entry limits, the Vice Minister assured that domestic oil refineries are operating normally and there is no anticipated fuel deficit. He noted a sharp increase in fuel consumption in the border regions of West Kazakhstan, Aktobe, and Pavlodar. The government is also considering Kyrgyzstan's request for fuel supplies. This move follows a directive from Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov to strengthen controls over the illegal outflow of petroleum products.

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Special attention is paid to identifying vehicles with additional fuel tanks.