Fuel production disruptions, transportation attacks, and Western sanctions are driving price hikes
Disturbances in trade routes and refinery closures have contributed to the rise in global fuel prices. Increases in gasoline and diesel surpass those of crude oil in some major markets. Fuel production disruptions, transportation attacks, and Western sanctions are driving price hikes.
Despite expected new refining capacity coming online, delays are common, making fuel availability uncertain in a year of record demand and U.S. elections. Experts warn gasoline prices could reach multi-year highs.

Although pump prices are rising slowly, low fuel reserves will keep refining margins high, according to the Energy Information Administration, prompting the agency to raise gasoline price forecasts for the second quarter. According to TransportTopics, Goldman Sachs Group notes distillate cracks benefit from low inventories and lower production, while Valero Energy Corp. expects a tight supply-demand balance due to long start-up periods for new refining capacities.
What about global production?
Following numerous delays, the Dangote refinery in Nigeria has initiated the export of fuel; however, doubts remain regarding its complete capacity and the schedule for the activation of specific units. Similar uncertainties surround Mexico’s Dos Bocas facility operated by Pemex.
Crude and raw material supply interruptions raise questions about fuel production. Russian sanctions and global trade flow changes due to Houthi attacks affect production. Concerns about gasoline component availability, especially ahead of the U.S. summer driving season, are compounded by Russian sanctions impacting alkylation and reformate production, according to Jorge Molinero of Sparta Commodities.
Global refining capacity is expected to increase this year, with varying outlooks depending on the fuel. Product margins are forecasted to be lower than in 2023 but higher than historical levels due to delays in new plants and inefficiencies caused by Russian sanctions.

Love at first truck: trucker’s love stories
To celebrate love, we have gathered truckers’ love stories that show how feelings can cross highways —literally— and remain strong despite obstacles. Love is one

Can love survive the open road? The realities of dating as a trucker
Although one might think that love and trucking don’t always go hand in hand, for many truckers they can be compatible, despite the obstacles. A

The Most Profitable — and Most Dangerous — Routes for Truck Drivers in the United States
The most profitable routes and the most dangerous routes for truck drivers in the United States handle the nation’s highest freight volumes while also exposing drivers to elevated risks, heavy congestion, extreme weather, and constant pressure on delivery schedules.

Taking your love on the road: how to have a romantic road trip for Valentine’s Day
Whether you’re a truck driver looking to combine work and pleasure, or simply hoping to enjoy a new experience with your partner, here’s what you

Final rule on Non-Domiciled CDLs issued by the Department of Transportation
FMCSA concludes a comprehensive review of regulations applicable to Non-Domiciled CDL holders. After several months, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has completed its

Truck drivers and brain fatigue: what happens to the mind after 10 hours behind the wheel
Fatigue in truck drivers, long haul mental health risks and the hidden neurological effects of extended attention, microsleeps and altered time perception.