Lukoil Neftohim Burgas ensures Bulgaria has sufficient diesel supply

Lukoil Neftohim Burgas has stated that Bulgaria faces no risk of diesel shortages, as the refinery's monthly production of between 240,000 and 260,000 tons significantly exceeds the national consumption of up to 190,000 tons.

The refinery's position follows the Bulgarian Parliament's decision on September 23, 2026, to lift a temporary ban on the export of petroleum products, specifically diesel and aviation fuel. The company argued that the previous export ban did not increase fuel availability for domestic consumers but instead hindered production efficiency and pressured the refinery's operational effectiveness.

Lukoil warned that restrictions on exporting high-value products like diesel and jet fuel could lead to a reduction in Bulgaria's GDP and slow economic growth. Deputy Minister of Economy Mihaela Karadimova noted that domestic needs must be secured before surplus products are exported. Additionally, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Alexander Pulev stated that lifting the ban would not cause market deficits and would provide liquidity for the refinery and the broader industry.