Europe faces diesel supply risks ahead of winter

Europe is among the regions most vulnerable to disruptions in diesel supplies as it relies heavily on imports and heads into the winter season, International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol said ahead of an informal meeting of EU energy ministers in Dublin, the European bureau of Report informs.

"Europe is one of the most vulnerable regions when it comes to diesel," Birol said.

He said traditional suppliers of diesel to Europe are currently facing difficulties, while around half of Europe's diesel imports come from the United States.

The IEA is closely monitoring the market, particularly refined petroleum products, and is prepared to discuss possible measures with member states if further pressure on prices emerges, Birol said.

He added that the agency is consulting not only with European countries but also with states supplying diesel to Europe amid the possibility of US restrictions on exports of the fuel.

According to Birol, the IEA provides recommendations to its member countries while taking into account their national interests as well as those of their allies and partners.

The consultations cover diesel as well as liquefied natural gas and natural gas markets, he said.