China has halted most refined fuel exports for October. Here is what we know so far. The suspension covers gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. It applies to all destinations except Hong Kong and Macau.

The move follows instructions from Beijing, according to Reuters. China wants to protect domestic fuel stocks during the Golden Week holiday. Travel and fuel use rise sharply during the festival period. PetroChina has already cancelled a large share of its October shipments.

Why does this matter? Asia’s diesel market was already tight before the freeze. China is one of the region’s biggest refining centres. When its supplies fall, buyers must look elsewhere. That can push up regional prices and refinery margins.

How long will it last? Analysts are watching Chinese inventories closely. If stocks recover after the holiday, exports could resume. A longer freeze would remove more fuel from global markets.

For consumers, the impact on pump prices will differ by country. Local taxes, stocks and import dependence all play a part.