On the morning of July 18, Ukrainian gas stations updated their price lists. Most networks have recorded an increase in the cost of gasoline and diesel fuel. Drivers should be prepared for the fact that car operating expenses will increase in the coming weeks.
How much it costs to fill a full tank today
To illustrate the situation, let's analyze it based on a standard tank volume of 50 liters. The calculations were based on the prices of A-95 gasoline, which is the most popular among motorists.
Currently, the most favorable offer is provided by the "Ukrnafta" network. The difference in the cost of filling a full tank compared to other major market players looks as follows:
- 275 UAH cheaper than at WOG gas stations.
- 375 UAH cheaper than at OKKO.
- 475 UAH cheaper than at SOCAR.
Thus, choosing the right gas station network can significantly affect the family budget under current conditions.
Reasons for price increases and expert forecasts
The increase in prices at fuel pumps is not a coincidence, but a logical process directly dependent on the situation in world markets. This was stated by fuel expert, Director of the "A-95" Consulting Group, Serhiy Kuyun, in a comment to RBC-Ukraine.
The specialist points out a critical gap between wholesale and retail prices. At the moment, the purchase cost of diesel fuel already exceeds the price at which it is sold at gas stations. The fuel that companies are purchasing today at world quotes costs more than the fuel that is still being sold from their tanks.
What drivers should prepare for in the coming weeks
According to Serhiy Kuyun, an increase in the retail price by 5 UAH per liter is a matter of time. Companies are already making purchases at higher rates, so a price increase is inevitable.
It is important to take into account the logistical features of the industry. The process of purchasing and delivering fuel takes from two to three weeks. This means that the price of fuel that drivers will see on the stands in the near future is already effectively formed today.
However, the expert notes a significant difference between the current situation and the March crisis. Back then, prices could soar by 10–12 UAH in a week. Currently, there are no prerequisites for such a sharp jump. Since world quotes are rising gradually, the price increase in Ukraine will also occur smoothly, without shock spikes.