The European Union has criticised a proposal backed by US President Donald Trump to restrict diesel exports, warning that such a move could have adverse consequences for both the United States and Europe.
European Commission spokesman Olof Gill said on Thursday that Brussels was concerned about the potential impact of the proposed measure, particularly at a time when both markets are facing elevated fuel prices.
“We believe this is a bad idea,” Gill told reporters at a press briefing, adding that the European Commission had raised its concerns with US officials at the highest level.
“We believe it potentially can have a negative impact on both sides,” he said.
The comments followed Trump’s recent support for a possible restriction on US diesel exports as rising energy costs linked to the conflict in the Middle East put additional pressure on American consumers.
Europe is particularly exposed to changes in global fuel supplies because the bloc relies heavily on imports to meet its diesel demand.
According to an analysis of member-state data published by the European Commission, the average retail price of diesel across the EU’s 27 countries reached a record €2.23 per litre.
The United States has become a major supplier to the European market. European Commission figures show that US shipments accounted for approximately 50 per cent of the bloc’s diesel imports in August.
Gill urged Washington to consult with its European partners before implementing measures that could affect interconnected fuel markets.
“We expect close partners to consult each other before taking measures that affect shared markets,” he said.