Key facts
- The US supplied 35.5% of UK diesel imports in 2024, making it the largest individual source.
- The UK imports about 55% of its road diesel.
- The average UK diesel price is approaching a record high, nearing 195.32p a litre.
- European officials have largely downplayed the threat of a US diesel export ban.
- The US supplied 420,000 barrels of diesel to EU member countries and the UK last month, over half of total imports.
The UK faces a potential diesel supply crisis if the US implements a ban on diesel exports, a move being considered by the Trump administration. Such a ban could significantly tighten already strained global fuel markets, with the UK being particularly vulnerable due to its increasing reliance on imported refined fuel. The US is the largest single supplier of diesel to the UK, accounting for 35.5% of imports in 2024, according to official figures. This reliance has grown following the closure of domestic refining capacity, including the Grangemouth and Lindsey refineries.
Donald Trump stated he supported stopping US diesel exports, citing pressure from soaring fuel prices on American consumers. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the administration is examining the feasibility of such a restriction. Robert Jenrick, Reform Treasury spokesman, warned that the move could threaten the UK's economic security.
Globally, the US supplied 420,000 barrels of diesel to EU member countries and the UK last month, representing more than half of total imports for the region. European officials, however, have largely downplayed the threat, with Czech trade minister Karel Havlíček expressing belief that the ban would not materialize due to potential negative impacts on world markets. Despite these assurances, the UK's diesel market is already under pressure, with Fuel Industry UK chief executive Elizabeth de Jong noting that the country imports about 55% of its road diesel.
The RAC has warned that the average UK diesel price is approaching a record high, with prices rising significantly in September. Simon Williams, the RAC's head of policy, indicated a new record was increasingly likely.