On January 23, Jansukh Nanba, the First de-facto Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Transport of the separatist Abkhazia addressed the press to discuss the fuel market situation in the region. Nanba assured journalists that fuel stuck at the border would soon reach Abkhazia, alleviating concerns about shortages. 

Nanba explained that Abkhazia currently has only 6,000 tons of fuel, sufficient for just one month. The de-facto official disclosed that the Russian government had amended a prior decision, allowing the importation of petroleum products that had cleared customs. 

The minister confirmed active government efforts to resolve the situation and emphasized that the decision was not expected to be detrimental. Rosneft anticipates extending favorable offers to fuel market participants, but as of Nanba's statement, no such offers have been received. While some gas stations have closed, those previously cooperating with Rosneft continue to provide fuel without quantity limitations. Nanba expressed hope that Abkhazia's position would be considered, leading to effective mechanisms for market participants in the sector.

Notably, on December 16, 2023, the Russian government granted Rosneft exclusive export rights for petroleum products to Abkhazia. However, issues arose at the border on December 21, preventing the export of pre-paid and declared volumes despite customs clearance. Moreover, some participants in the local fuel market had to close their gas stations temporarily due to a month-long scarcity.