Trump says he is seriously considering a diesel export ban but warns it could raise gasoline prices; the White House says no decision has been made. Aides are weighing voluntary export limits, a federal diesel-tax suspension and state action.
AAA put the national diesel average at $6.45 a gallon Monday, slightly below the previous week’s record of $6.52. Oxford Economics estimated that a ban could lower prices by roughly 30% within weeks in some US regions, but said effects would vary and European wholesale prices could rise 40%-50%. Experts also warned that US refineries could cut output, limiting domestic relief.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the administration is working with refiners on voluntary export curbs. The American Petroleum Institute said a blanket ban would compound the problem and called for more supply and flexibility; a federal tax suspension may require congressional action. Nebraska ordered a 90-day diesel-tax suspension for agricultural and ranching vehicles, while Alabama directed a 120-day halt in enforcing rules on tax-exempt diesel. The article says high global fuel prices are driven mainly by Strait of Hormuz restrictions and Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries.
