Donald Trump evaluates US diesel export ban to curb fuel costs ahead of midterms

Oval Office deliberations

US President Donald Trump stated on 30 September 2026 that he is continuing to evaluate a federal ban on diesel fuel exports to contain domestic energy costs. Speaking to reporters from the Oval Office, Trump noted that discussions concerning the proposed export restrictions take place daily within his administration. The proposal emerged following indications the previous week that the White House remained open to restricting outward diesel shipments to suppress domestic retail prices. While Trump confirmed that an export ban remains under active review, he observed that such an intervention could lower diesel expenses while simultaneously causing gasoline prices to rise.

Trump addressed the conflicting assessments provided by administration advisers during the White House event.

I speak to Chris and Doug about it a lot -- they sort of think it'll help diesel, but it might raise the price of other things.

Price spikes and global refinery strains

Domestic fuel markets have experienced substantial cost increases over the preceding twelve months. Gasoline prices in the United States have increased by more than 40% over the past year, while diesel reached a peak of $6.53 a gallon one week before the Oval Office remarks, according to data from AAA. Administration officials attribute elevated diesel costs to global supply contractions resulting from the war in Iran and refining disruptions linked to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure. Trump identified the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with military strikes from both sides affecting production and export facilities, as the primary factor driving diesel costs higher. Disruption to international refining capacity has further tightened diesel availability across energy markets.

Cabinet deliberations and industry response

The consideration of export restrictions has encountered resistance from oil and gas industry executives and members of the presidential cabinet. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum have argued that restricting outward diesel flows could inflate prices across other refined petroleum categories, including motor gasoline. Wright noted that disruptions have affected global supply beyond domestic refining, including the loss of diesel exports from the Middle East, though efforts to restore those flows remain underway. Trump stated that he remains optimistic regarding fuel costs after petroleum transit through the Strait of Hormuz showed gains in late September 2026. Top administration officials also indicated that European suppliers could introduce additional diesel volumes into the market in the near term.

Midterm election considerations

The policy deliberations over fuel exports coincide with preparation for the November 2026 midterm elections. The Trump administration and Republican congressional candidates have faced public pressure to reduce consumer fuel expenses, as presidential approval ratings on economic management face scrutiny. Energy industry representatives and cabinet advisers have sought to develop alternative market measures to prevent broad price increases across other fuel types. Trump maintained that market conditions may stabilize without executive intervention, remarking on the current state of policy reviews.

Trump summarized his perspective on the administration's position during the briefing.

We think we're in a very good place.