Georgia is set to fully phase out Russian oil imports, replacing them with supplies from Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, in a move that could reshape regional energy flows and open access to European markets.

The transition will take place at the refinery in Kulevi, owned by Black Sea Petroleum (BSP). BSP CEO David Potskhveria confirmed the shift in strategy, The Caspian Post reports via Georgian media.

“We will fully replace Russian oil with oil from Turkmenistan, and then also with oil from Kazakhstan, which will allow us to export products to the EU,” said Potskhveria, noting that imports of Russian oil products into the European Union are now prohibited.

“Processing of Turkmen oil at our refinery will begin immediately once the issue of transit through Azerbaijan is resolved,” Potskhveria added.

The Kulevi facility is currently the only oil refinery in Georgia, with an annual processing capacity of 1.2 million tons and plans to scale up to 4.5 million tons. Launched in December last year, the plant is positioning itself as a key regional hub.

BSP’s international partners include energy giant Saudi Aramco and multinational commodity trader Trafigura. Beyond current output such as fuel oil and diesel, the company aims to expand into producing Euro-5 gasoline, aviation fuel, and Euro diesel for export markets.