India notifies export levies on petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel for the next fortnight
The Central Government has revised export levies on petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel for the fortnight beginning tomorrow, in a move aimed at protecting domestic fuel supplies amid continuing uncertainty linked to the West Asia crisis.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Finance, petrol exports will attract a duty of Rs 1.5 per litre, while diesel exports will be subject to a duty of Rs 13.5 per litre. The export duty on aviation turbine fuel has been fixed at Rs 9.5 per litre. The revised rates will come into effect from tomorrow and remain in force for the next fortnight.
The Finance Ministry said the export levies were introduced on March 27 this year and are reviewed every two weeks on the basis of average international prices of crude oil, petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel. The system allows the government to adjust duties in line with changes in global energy markets while keeping domestic supply conditions in mind.
The Ministry also clarified that there is no change in the existing excise duty rates on petrol and diesel intended for consumption within India. The latest revision applies only to exports and does not affect retail fuel prices for domestic consumers directly.
The government’s decision comes at a time when energy markets remain under pressure because of geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have raised concerns over supply stability and price volatility. By modifying export duties, authorities aim to discourage excessive overseas sales and ensure that enough petroleum products remain available in the domestic market.
India has periodically reviewed fuel export levies since their introduction to balance domestic requirements with global trade opportunities. The special additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess form part of the broader tax structure governing fuel exports. These levies can be revised upward or downward depending on international crude trends and domestic supply considerations.
Officials said the fortnightly review mechanism is intended to provide flexibility in managing fuel flows while responding quickly to shifts in global oil prices. The current revision reflects the government’s effort to maintain supply security during a period of uncertainty in international energy markets.
Petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel are among the most important refined petroleum products in the economy, with changes in export taxation often watched closely by industry players and market participants. Any adjustment in duties can influence refinery margins, export volumes and domestic availability.
The latest order will be applicable for two weeks, after which the government is expected to assess market conditions again and decide whether further changes are needed.
