Accusations by financier Otabek Bakirov of manipulating gasoline prices in Uzbekistan were denied on 3 April by the press service of UNG Petro, the operator of Uzbekneftegaz filling stations.
Bakirov accused Uzbekneftegaz that, despite the fall in oil prices in the world, prices for AI-80 gasoline in Uzbekistan do not decrease, but increase. He claims that oil prices fell from $85 (6.75 thousand rubles) to $70 (5.55 thousand rubles), but since March 31, Uzbekneftegaz raised the price of gasoline AI-80 to 6050 soums (42 5 rubles) – 6100 soums (42.5 rubles).
At the same time, UNG Petro responded that, in accordance with the relevant decisions of the President and the Government of Uzbekistan, steps are now being taken to liberalize the economy and reduce administrative regulation. That is, pricing now depends on the market, and not on the state, and prices are formed on market principles.
It is highlighted that refineries sell gasoline and diesel produced from oil and gas condensates produced on the territory of Uzbekistan only through exchanges. At the same time, around 3,000 gas stations in Uzbekistan are eligible to participate in these exchanges, of which only 70 of them, i.e. 2.3%, are managed by UNG Petro LLC, Uzbekneftegaz.
That is, almost all gas stations are private. In addition, AI-80 gasoline can be imported into the republic by anyone who wants it.
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“Based on the above, the price of AI-80 gasoline will increase from 6,000 to 6,100 soums (42.5 rubles – approx. Red Spring AI), or 1.7%, in the branches of OOO UNG Petro, which represents 2.3% of its market”reports the press service.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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