Gasoline prices fell in 57 Russian regions: analyst links the decline to market saturation

Price decline has spread across most regions

According to Rosstat, from October 20 to 26 gasoline prices fell in 57 Russian regions. The most noticeable declines were recorded in Kamchatka — 12.6% — and in Ivanovo Region — 11.4%. At the same time, fuel prices rose in 24 regions, most sharply in Saratov Region — by 2.1%. In Moscow, the price of gasoline fell by 0.6%, while in Saint Petersburg it rose by 0.7%. As Life.ru previously reported, the average cost of a liter nationwide fell by 1.4 rubles over the week — to 76.64 rubles.

Analyst attributed the dynamics to refinery recovery

Igor Yushkov, an analyst at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation and the National Energy Security Fund, told RIA Novosti that the price decline is linked to growing fuel supply on the domestic market. In his view, oil refineries that had previously sustained damage are gradually returning to operation after repairs and increasing fuel deliveries. 'Is this trend sustainable? Yes, I think it will, generally speaking, continue,' Yushkov said. He noted that the price reduction first occurs on the wholesale market, which allows independent gas stations to buy gasoline cheaper and bring retail prices closer to the level of major oil companies — in the expert's assessment, this is a sign of saturation of the domestic market.

Restrictions on fuel sales are being relaxed

In parallel, regions are relaxing restrictions on fuel sales that were introduced due to supply disruptions. In Bashkortostan, limits at gas stations were lifted entirely, while in Udmurtia three major gas station chains returned to normal sales operations. In addition, regional authorities and independent gas stations signed 125 price-restraint agreements in 44 Russian regions — the FAS previously reported such measures. Also, Russia has extended its ban on diesel exports — until January 31, 2027.