Why is President Trump meeting with US oil refiners, and what are the main issues on the agenda?

President Trump is meeting with US oil refiners to address persistently high gasoline and diesel prices—currently at $4+ and nearly $6 per gallon respectively—driven by disruptions from the Iran war. The agenda includes hearing directly from executives about market dynamics, ways to lower fuel prices, and strategies to bolster domestic refining capacity, including potential policy changes affecting operations and incentives.

Which major oil companies are invited to the meeting, and why is their participation significant given current US energy policy?

Invited companies include Marathon Petroleum Corp., Delek US Holdings Inc., Chevron Corp., PBF Energy Inc., and Valero Energy Corp.—spanning large integrated firms and smaller independents. Their participation is significant because several, like Valero and Chevron, are top users of Venezuelan crude, and the meeting coincides with the Trump administration’s consideration of measures to unlock more Venezuelan oil flows; refiners are also expected to propose solutions for expanding domestic refining capacity amid a shrinking national fleet.

Trump to Meet US Oil Refiners Regarding High Fuel Prices

Aug 28, 2026

President Trump will meet major US oil refiners next week to address persistently high gasoline prices driven by Middle East tensions. Discussions will cover refining capacity expansion, Venezuelan crude imports, and potential biofuel quota exemptions.

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