US President Donald Trump said on September 30 that his administration is still considering a ban on US diesel exports as it seeks to curb rising fuel prices, Reuters reported.

Speaking at the White House, Trump said discussions about a potential export ban were happening “every day.” He said the measure could reduce diesel prices in the US but would likely put upward pressure on gasoline prices.

Trump attributed the recent increase in diesel prices mainly to disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, including attacks affecting energy production and exports.

US diesel prices hit a record $6.53 per gallon last week, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). Gasoline prices have also risen by more than 40% over the past year.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the supply disruptions extend beyond Russia and Ukraine, noting that the US has also lost some diesel exports from the Middle East and China. He added that some Middle Eastern supplies were being restored and that Europe was expected to announce additional diesel supplies.

The White House has urged the European Union (EU) to release emergency diesel stocks to help ease prices, Reuters reported.

The Trump administration has also considered several measures to increase domestic diesel supplies, including a blanket export ban, voluntary export limits by refiners, and expanding access to tax-exempt diesel.

Trump previously backed the idea of restricting diesel exports on September 23, saying the US should retain more of its domestic diesel production.

However, US energy officials have warned that a broad export ban could create a surplus on the US Gulf Coast, potentially prompting refiners to reduce production. Lower refinery output could subsequently reduce gasoline supplies and push gasoline prices higher.

A US diesel export ban could also tighten fuel supplies in Europe, which relies on imports from the US, while encouraging other producers to increase exports to the region.