Russia's Investigative Body to Manage Exports of Solvents and Thinners from Belarus
In a recent development, Russian Railways has ceased exports of naphtha to Belarus, a feedstock used in the production of solvents and thinners. However, Belarus does not anticipate any changes in the conditions of Russian naphtha imports, despite the halt of naphtha shipments by Russian oil companies.
The investigation into the dubious export of solvents and thinners from Belarus is ongoing, with multiple Russian government entities, including the Investigating Committee of the Russian Federation and the Federal Customs Service, involved in the process. The export of solvents, thinners, and grease substances from Belarus is a separate issue from the naphtha shipments and does not seem to be affecting them.
The ongoing investigation stems from concerns about the legality of the export of these substances, as reported by RIA Novosti. While specific export shipment data for solvents like naphtha and paint thinners shows transactions involving these products in various countries, direct evidence of dubious or illegal exports from Belarus was not identified in available data.
The export of solvent products like naphtha-containing paint thinners continues but is subject to regulatory scrutiny given their chemical nature. The investigation and inspection are being conducted to ensure compliance with export regulations and to prevent any illegal activities.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the naphtha trade remains active but closely monitored amidst prevailing geopolitical circumstances. Russian chemical exports, including naphtha, continue, although recent data shows some supply chain disruptions globally. Russian-origin naphtha continues to be present in international markets, although specific import volumes into Belarus or detailed bilateral trade data with Russia were not disclosed in the sources.
It is important to note that there is no ground to alter the naphtha shipment amounts to Belarus or change the conditions for the shipment. Belarusian oil refineries do not produce or export thinners and grease substances.
The unofficial losses of Russia in 2012 due to the dubious export of thinners and solvents from Belarus are estimated to be approximately $2 billion. In late June, an interdepartmental commission led by Russia's Federal Customs Service inspected the legality of the production and export of these substances from Belarus, which led to the cease of naphtha exports by Russian Railways.
As the investigation continues, the Russian government is studying the export practices to ensure compliance with regulations and to prevent any illegal activities. The public will be updated as more information becomes available.
The investigation into the legalities of the export of thinners and solvents, including naphtha, from Belarus is ongoing, with multiple Russian government entities involved. Despite the halt of naphtha shipments by Russian oil companies, the ongoing investigation does not seem to be affecting the export of these substances, as they are treated as separate issues. The export of these substances remains subject to regulatory scrutiny to ensure compliance with export regulations and prevent any illegal activities.
