Belarus significantly raises export duties on liquefied gases
The government of Belarus has decided to substantially revise export duties on petroleum products. The relevant resolution, signed by Prime Minister Alexander Turchin, introduces new tariff rates for liquefied hydrocarbon gases. According to reports by BELTA, the changes came into force retroactively from May 1, 2026.
The changes affect key export categories in the gas sector. The increase in duties is substantial:
— Liquefied hydrocarbon gases: the duty rate increased from $5.2 to $131.6 per ton. — Ethane, butane, and isobutane: tariffs rose from $4.6 to $118.4 per ton.
Such a sharp increase in export duties is a tool of state regulation over revenues from foreign trade in energy resources. Measures of this kind are usually adopted to adapt to changing global market conditions and to protect the country’s budget interests.
The resolution enters into force after its official publication, but legally applies to all export operations carried out since the beginning of the current month. Participants in foreign economic activity should take the new financial conditions into account when calculating the profitability of supplies.
This decision highlights the Belarusian government’s intention to strengthen control over revenues in the energy sector and to synchronize taxation mechanisms with its partners in economic unions.
ORIENT
