U.S. diesel overtakes Russian imports in Brazil over past 45 days

The Brazilian fuel market saw a significant shift in import sources in August, with the United States overtaking Russia as the country’s main supplier of refined products, particularly diesel.

According to a fuel supply report by Brazil’s National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP), from July 1 to August 14, 2025, the U.S. accounted for 30.5% of Brazil’s total fuel imports. Russia followed with 21%, while the Gulf countries — specifically Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar — accounted for 12.6%.

The rise in U.S. diesel imports marks a continuation of a trend that began in July and intensified in August. Although Russian diesel became a major alternative after Europe curtailed purchases due to the war in Ukraine, Brazilian importers have recently shifted toward U.S. supply amid falling prices.

As of last week, the ANP reported that the average price difference between Russian and U.S. diesel on the international market was just $0.02 per liter, favoring American diesel. These figures reflect prices at the port of origin and exclude freight, insurance, tariffs, or taxes.

The increased market share for U.S. fuel comes as the Trump administration pursues commercial policies aimed at boosting American producers’ global competitiveness. At the same time, expectations of harsher sanctions against Russia have waned, as investors anticipate a gradual recovery in Russian oil trade amid the progress of peace negotiations in the Ukraine conflict.

The shifting dynamics have already impacted global oil prices. On Tuesday, August 19, Brent crude for October delivery fell by 1.22% (US$0.81), closing at US$65.79 per barrel.

Experts say the global fuel trade is undergoing a reorganization in response to geopolitical tensions. Brazil, they note, is responding pragmatically by diversifying its suppliers and aiming to cut import costs.

Source: Porto Ferreira Hoje

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