Russia becomes the main diesel supplier to Brazil but loses influence due to high domestic demand
Russia, after introducing discounts, has become the largest supplier of diesel fuel to Brazil, but there is a noted decrease in this share due to the growth of its own fuel demand. This occurs against the background of Western sanctions imposed on Russia.
Brazil, although one of the leading oil producers globally, relies on imported diesel fuel, which accounts for about one-third of consumption. In 2023, Russia managed to become the largest diesel supplier to Brazil, taking advantage of the lack of refining capacity in the country and offering discounts. According to the Financial Times, the volume of Russian diesel imports increased from 95 million dollars in 2022 to 5.4 billion dollars in 2024.
However, the growth in domestic diesel demand in Russia and attacks on oil refineries, which reduced fuel availability, led to a decrease in the Russian share on the Brazilian market. If in the first half of 2023 Russia’s share was 60%, by October only 17% of the fuel came from Russia. The reduction in exports is also associated with potential economic consequences of the sanctions imposed on Russian companies like Rosneft and Lukoil.
This response may have serious economic consequences for both countries, which are part of BRICS — an alliance that unites major emerging market economies. During the last BRICS summit, held in Brazil in July, participants condemned unilateral sanctions against Russia and expressed concern over attacks on infrastructure facilities in Russia.
| Year | Import from Russia (mln $) | Share in Brazil’s Market (%) |
| 2022 | 95 | – |
| 2023 (1st half) | – | 60 |
| 2023 (October) | – | 17 |
| 2024 | 5.4 billion | – |
