Russia to delay implementation of Euro 3

Regulations banning sales of Euro 2-compliant diesel fuels in Russia may be delayed until the end of 2012 because the refining industry is not yet ready to comply, said the Russian Energy Ministry (REM). REM also proposed  to push back deadlines for selling Euro 3- and Euro 4-compliant gasoline until the end of 2014 and 2015, respectively. However, sales of normal unleaded gasoline with research octane number or RON of 80 will be banned as planned starting September 5. Fuel shortages were reported in several Russian regions since April which were said to be caused by increased exports to Central Asia by refiners who could not meet the new standards. (June 6, 2011)