The Trump administration is studying whether a ban on US diesel exports is feasible, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, as domestic diesel prices climb to record highs and lawmakers press for action.
Key facts
- Treasury Secretary Bessent said officials are examining whether a diesel export ban is feasible.
- Officials are weighing whether a full or partial ban would work given overall refining capacity.
- President Trump has said he would back a ban on diesel exports, according to the BBC.
- Republican lawmakers have pushed the president to curb exports as diesel prices hit record highs, the BBC reported.
The Trump administration is examining whether a ban on US diesel exports would be feasible, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, as domestic prices for the fuel climb to record highs.
“We’re examining whether it’s feasible in terms of the overall refining capacity and whether a full or partial ban would work,” Bessent said, indicating that officials are weighing both the scope of any potential restriction and its practicality.
The comments signal that a range of options remains on the table, from a full prohibition on exports to a more limited, partial measure. Bessent tied the assessment to the country’s overall refining capacity.
President Trump has said he would back a ban on diesel exports, according to the BBC. The stance aligns the president with lawmakers who have urged action on prices.
Republican lawmakers have put pressure on the president to curb exports as diesel prices soar to record highs in the US, the BBC reported. That pressure has come as the cost of the fuel weighs on consumers and businesses.
No timeline or final decision has been announced. The administration’s review, as described by Bessent, is focused on determining whether such a ban is workable before any policy is set.
Why it matters
Diesel powers freight, farming and much of the wider economy, so any export restriction could affect prices and supply for businesses and consumers alike. The review signals the administration is under political pressure to respond to record fuel costs, though no decision has been made.
Frequently asked questions
Has the US decided to ban diesel exports?
No. Treasury Secretary Bessent said the administration is examining whether such a ban is feasible, and no final decision or timeline has been announced.
Does President Trump support a diesel export ban?
According to the BBC, Trump has said he would back a ban on diesel exports.
Why is a diesel export ban being considered?
Republican lawmakers have pressed the president to curb exports as diesel prices climb to record highs in the US, according to the BBC.