India has reduced export duties on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF), offering some relief to refiners as global oil prices remain volatile. The new rates came into effect on May 1.
Export duty on diesel has been brought down to ₹23 per litre from ₹55.5, while jet fuel duty has been reduced to ₹33 per litre from ₹42. There is no export duty on petrol. Despite these changes, taxes on fuels sold within the country remain unchanged.
The decision comes at a time when global crude oil prices have surged due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply concerns, particularly in West Asia. As a major importer of crude oil, India is sensitive to such fluctuations, which can impact both fuel availability and pricing.
Earlier, the government had raised export duties to ensure enough fuel stayed within the country and to prevent companies from exporting more for higher profits. The latest move signals a shift, allowing refiners more flexibility while still keeping domestic supply stable.
For consumers, there is no immediate impact, as petrol and diesel prices at the pump remain steady. The government has maintained these rates to avoid passing on the burden of rising global prices to the public.
The changes also come as the aviation sector faces higher fuel costs, with ATF being a major expense for airlines. Lower export duties may help ease some of the pressure on fuel supply and pricing.