On January 1, 2013, Russia banned fuel below the Euro-3 class. The Russian government made the decision in September 2011, but the practical introduction of the new rule had to be postponed because of the absence of refining and automotive capacities of the country, since 50 percent of drivers used Euro-2 gasoline and below. The turnover of Euro-2 gasoline and diesel fuel was extended till December 31, 2012, Euro-3 - till December 31, 2014 and Euro-4 - till December 31, 2015.
Industry experts suggested that the ban of Euro-2 can be further delayed due to slow refinery upgrade. However, the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources advocated the compliance with applicable technical regulations.
In 2012, 15 new oil recycling plants appeared in Russia, which confirmed the willingness to provide the domestic market with motor fuel of the third grade and above from January 1, 2013. Oil companies transferred around 190 billion rubles for the modernization of refineries.