Fuel Price Situation in Ukraine
Dmytro Leushkin, founder of the Prime group of companies, has stated in a commentary to UNIAN that fuel prices in Ukraine could increase by one hryvnia once temperatures stabilize above freezing. He explained the reasons and current market conditions, noting that filling station networks are currently making their primary profit from the sale of arctic diesel, where the markup has reached record levels. The Ukrainian fuel market is highly sensitive to seasonal demand and logistical challenges.
The current difference between the wholesale purchase price and the retail price for this fuel remains about 15.5 hryvnias per liter. Leushkin points out that the price gap between premium and regular diesel was previously 2-3 hryvnias, but has now widened to 10 hryvnias. He says that as long as winter persists, networks will not stop selling arctic diesel, which retails for 75 hryvnias per liter while being purchased for 55 hryvnias.
Price Forecasts and Fluctuations
The expert also forecasts that the situation with autogas (LPG) will be more stable, with price fluctuations within 50 kopiykas. With the arrival of spring, filling stations will begin actively competing for customers, which could lead to a wave of discounts and promotional offers within a few weeks. Leushkin emphasizes that after the weather stabilizes, networks may add one hryvnia to the price of fuel.
The rise in fuel prices in Ukraine may be driven not only by seasonal changes but also by specific market features, particularly the high markups on arctic diesel. Expert forecasts indicate that with the start of spring and improved weather conditions, filling stations may activate promotions, which could potentially reduce price pressure on consumers. The situation with autogas, in turn, promises to be more stable, but price changes remain likely depending on market conditions.