President enforces measures to prevent unfair methane price increases.
The Ministry of Energy in Uzbekistan has announced that there are no legitimate reasons for a sudden surge in methane prices. Any entrepreneurs found to be increasing prices unjustifiably will be held accountable for their actions.
Following discussions on gas prices, Deputy Minister of Energy Azizkhodja Kobilov reported that the president has issued a strict directive to the government to prevent unjustified price hikes. This comes after the liberalization of gas prices, removing the previous maximum price for liquefied gas on August 1.
As of yesterday, gas prices at stations for automobiles are now regulated by market forces. Kobilov stated that with the price of natural gas and tax rates already determined, along with stable storage costs, there is no legitimate basis for a sharp increase in gas prices for vehicles.
However, he also emphasized that while entrepreneurs have the freedom to set prices, it does not give them the liberty to act without consequences. The import of liquefied gas by businesses is currently not restricted, with producers and importers offering it at exchange trades to maintain price stability based on demand.
To ensure methane prices remain stable, the Committee for Competition Development and Consumer Rights Protection, the General Prosecutor’s Office, Uzenergoinspektsiya, and other relevant authorities will monitor and prevent any unjustified price increases.
If any business entities are found to artificially inflate fuel prices, they will be held accountable through established legal procedures, and fuel supplies to them will be suspended. Consumers who come across unjustified price hikes on methane can report them to the Competition Committee, General Prosecutor’s Office, or Uzenergoinspektsiya for further action.
