Some mini-refineries export gasoline to Afghanistan

According to Energy Press, mini-refineries have been accused of being involved in fuel smuggling for years. However, the managers of these units have repeatedly claimed that they have never directly exported gasoline and have only been engaged in the export of industrial solvents.
However, the latest statements by the CEO of Shazand Petrochemical show that this narrative is questionable. In an interview with this media outlet, Karimi emphasized that some mini-refineries export gasoline to Afghanistan and that shipments are usually exported through the Dogharoon and Milak borders.
What is the status of gasoline exports to Afghanistan?
Abbas Karimi, CEO of Shazand Petrochemical, explained in an interview with this media outlet, in response to a question about the status of the petrochemical company’s gasoline export contract to Afghanistan and the change in the country’s laws: Since mid-May of this year, the import of gasoline with an octane of 80 has been banned into Afghanistan and there is a requirement to supply gasoline with an octane of over 92. These strictures are even stricter than European standards. While about one-third of Shazand’s income was provided by these exports.
Referring to the history of the contracts, he said: “The contract we have with the Afghan side is related to the previous board of directors, but it has a specific framework and gasoline is sold based on it. In addition, we have another contract with the same company for the export of 92 octane gasoline. According to the terms of the contract, it is not possible to cancel it, because there is a possibility of legal prosecution and imposing heavy costs on the company.”