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Sep 24, 2026 1:51 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur with files from The Canadian Press
Consumers in Canada and around the world could face higher costs if U.S. President Donald Trump moves ahead with a potential ban on American diesel exports.
Trump has recently indicated that he could restrict diesel exports in an effort to lower prices for U.S. consumers. Rising oil prices linked to the war in the Middle East are creating political pressure ahead of the November midterm elections, with Republicans facing the risk of losing control of Congress.
Media reports suggest the proposed restriction could remain in place for 90 days. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has confirmed that Washington is examining whether a full or partial export ban would be possible, depending on refining capacity.
The discussion comes as the average price of diesel in the United States has reached a record US$6.51 per gallon, while prices in Canada are around C$2 per litre.
Experts say an export ban could provide some initial relief for U.S. consumers, but cutting off supplies to international markets could trigger significant disruption and volatility. In the longer term, reduced supply could instead keep diesel prices elevated.
