European traders from the ARA region (Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp) are still supplying Russian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to Ukraine, according to NaftoRynok study based on an analysis of Russian LPG exports and a survey of traders.
Some shipments of Russian LPG are likely to transit to Ukraine via the Netherlands. Supply of LPG produced by the Russian company Sibur from Tobolsk (Russia) to the Netherlands continues, although the volumes have significantly decreased. In January-April 2024, supplies from Tobolsk almost halved compared to the same period in 2023: from 308.4 thousand tonnes to 160 thousand tonnes.
After being delivered by rail from Russian plants to the port of Ust-Luga, LPG is transported by sea to the ports of the Netherlands, and then most likely arrives at Polish gas storage facilities for re-mixing. Russian LPG is mixed with gas of non-russian origin in a 51/49 ratio and then shipped to Ukraine, NaftoRynok study shows. Since the share of Russian LPG is 49%, or less than half, the mixture receives a passport of EU origin.
In December 2023, the EU imposed sanctions on Russian LPG with a 1-year grace period, during which the product can be purchased under long-term contracts.
In May 2023, Ukraine banned imports of fuel of unknown origin to prevent supplies of Russian fuel with fake documents. However, Russian LPG continues to enter Ukraine via the Polish market.
