Russia’s Federal Anti-Monopoly Service (FAS) has launched a review of fuel pricing practices at two major gas station operators in the Moscow region, requesting detailed sales data and explanations for recent increases in gasoline and diesel prices.
Russia’s Federal Anti-Monopoly Service (FAS) has launched a review of fuel pricing practices at two major gas station operators in the Moscow region, requesting detailed sales data and explanations for recent increases in gasoline and diesel prices.
According to reporting by The Moscow Times, the regulator has instructed fuel retailers Neftmagistral and EuroTrans to provide information on their pricing policies and justify recent changes in fuel costs. The companies have reportedly been given until June 26 to respond to the inquiry.
The investigation comes amid growing concerns about fuel market conditions following a series of Ukrainian drone strikes on energy infrastructure near Moscow. The affected refinery, operated by Gazprom Neft south of the capital, plays a significant role in supplying gasoline and jet fuel to the region.
Antitrust authorities are examining whether recent retail price increases can be supported by market conditions and operating costs. The request for economic justification signals that regulators are evaluating whether fuel prices reflect legitimate supply pressures or whether further action may be warranted under competition laws.
Reuters reported earlier this week that FAS separately sought an explanation from Neftmagistral after the company raised the price of 95-octane gasoline by approximately 19% within a matter of days. The regulator’s inquiry followed concerns that the increase significantly exceeded prices posted by other major fuel retailers in Moscow. According to Reuters, the company operates roughly 100 service stations in Moscow and the surrounding region.
Read more: Russia Opens Antitrust Case Into Gazprom Subsidiary Over Sharp Fuel Supply Cuts
The latest review is unfolding as fuel supply disruptions and rationing measures have been reported in multiple Russian regions. According to The Moscow Times, some areas have introduced restrictions on fuel purchases as refinery operations face pressure from repeated attacks on oil infrastructure.
Fuel prices have continued to climb nationwide in recent months. The Moscow Times reported that average gasoline prices in Russia have risen 6.6% since the beginning of the year, reaching 69.11 rubles per liter as of mid-June.
The gas station investigation also follows broader antitrust enforcement activity in the fuel sector. Earlier this month, FAS opened separate investigations into several major fuel traders over allegations that market practices may have influenced fuel prices.
Source: The Moscow Times