Russian fuel oil exports to Asia fall over fifty percent amid sanctions and refinery damage
Russian fuel oil exports to Asia hit 1.2 million tons in January 2026. This 52 percent drop follows sanctions and drone strikes that have reduced refinery output.
Insights:
Russian 
RUexports of Fuel Oil to the Asian market have experienced a significant contraction in January 2026, totaling approximately 1.2 million metric tons. This volume, which translates to roughly 246,000 barrels per day, represents a 52 percent decline compared to the 2.5 million tons recorded in January 2025. This month’s performance marks the third consecutive month of declining exports from Russiaas the sector grapples with persistent operational and geopolitical headwinds.
RUexports of Fuel Oil to the Asian market have experienced a significant contraction in January 2026, totaling approximately 1.2 million metric tons. This volume, which translates to roughly 246,000 barrels per day, represents a 52 percent decline compared to the 2.5 million tons recorded in January 2025. This month’s performance marks the third consecutive month of declining exports from Russiaas the sector grapples with persistent operational and geopolitical headwinds.The downturn is primarily attributed to United States 
USsanctions imposed in October 2025 on major producers Rosneft and Lukoil . Simultaneously, Ukrainian 
UAdrone attacks on refining facilities, which have also occurred since October 2025, have forced several refineries to shut down for repairs. This combination of events has led to a notable reduction in the output of refined products across the Russianenergy sector, tightening the available supply for international buyers.
USsanctions imposed in October 2025 on major producers Rosneft and Lukoil . Simultaneously, Ukrainian UAdrone attacks on refining facilities, which have also occurred since October 2025, have forced several refineries to shut down for repairs. This combination of events has led to a notable reduction in the output of refined products across the Russianenergy sector, tightening the available supply for international buyers.
