The Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine (AMCU) is continuing its active investigation into the situation in the fuel market. The regulator's main focus is on possible anti-competitive coordinated actions between the largest gas station networks. The inspection was initiated after a sharp spike in gasoline and diesel prices recorded in March 2026.
Collusion Investigation and Market Reaction
According to data obtained by RBC-Ukraine during a request to the AMCU, the official start of the case was given on March 9. The regulator opened proceedings on the grounds of possible anti-competitive actions by gas station operators. At the moment, a final decision on the case has not yet been made, but the monitoring process continues.
On April 23, the AMCU published recommendations for market participants. In the document, the regulator urged networks to form and change retail prices exclusively based on objective economic factors, strictly complying with legislation on the protection of economic competition.
In response to the recommendations, fuel market operators informed the Committee that they had taken the remarks into account. Representatives of the networks stated that pricing is carried out by them independently and in accordance with current market conditions.
New Wave of Price Hikes and the Role of Geopolitics
Despite the assurances of operators, the situation in the market remains tense. At the end of July, the AMCU held a separate meeting with representatives of the largest gas station networks. The reason for the dialogue was a new wave of fuel price increases.
The parties discussed the reasons for the price increase, which experts and market participants link to the escalation of the geopolitical situation in the Middle East. The meeting also considered measures to minimize the consequences of the fuel crisis for the economy of Ukraine.
Current Situation: Prices and Stabilization
After a rapid rise in prices at the end of July, the situation temporarily stabilized. As of August 6, the largest gas station networks did not change retail price tags compared to the previous day. However, the cost of fuel remains at historically high levels.
According to RBC-Ukraine infographics, the price spread for A-95 gasoline among the largest networks ranges from 79.90 UAH/l to 85.40 UAH/l. Diesel fuel is offered at a price from 89.90 UAH/l to 95.90 UAH/l (premium grades reach 98.90 UAH/l). Autogas is sold in the range from 42.90 UAH/l to 44.50 UAH/l.
Regulator's Position: Free Pricing
In response to a media request, the AMCU clearly outlined its legal position. The Committee noted that prices for oil products in Ukraine are not subject to state regulation. Under conditions of free pricing, the cost of fuel is formed by the balance of supply and demand.
Consequently, the AMCU does not carry out administrative regulation of prices. Nevertheless, the regulator emphasized that it continues to receive appeals from citizens about the sharp increase in fuel prices and constantly analyzes the state of competition. In the event of violations of the law are detected, the AMCU promises to take measures in accordance with the law.
