Recent data show that the average price for gasoline across Russia rose during the week of September 11 to 18, climbing by 44 kopecks and reaching 55.65 rubles per liter. This shift reflects a broad uptick in fuel costs observed across many regions, signaling a trend that may influence household budgets and transport planning in the near term.
Looking at the specific fuel grades, AI-92 advanced by 39 kopecks to 51.41 rubles per liter, AI-95 increased by 47 kopecks to 56.24 rubles, and AI-98 moved up by 52 kopecks to 67.89 rubles per liter. These changes illustrate a consistent pattern of price movements across the popular mid- and high-octane categories, underscoring how volatility in the energy sector can filter through to consumer prices in a relatively short period.
Diesel fuel saw the most pronounced weekly rise, gaining 1.32 rubles to reach 63.96 rubles per liter. While price growth occurred in 79 regions nationwide, the sharpest increases were recorded in Chechnya, where prices climbed by 5.5 percent, and in Tyva, with a 3.2 percent rise. This regional divergence highlights how local market conditions, logistics, and regulatory factors can intensify price shifts in a short window.
In the capital cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg also experienced price advances, rising by 0.5 percent and 0.2 percent respectively. Specifically, within Moscow, AI-92 gasoline moved from 48.69 to 57.99 rubles per liter, AI-95 from 53.79 to 64.69 rubles, and AI-98 and higher from 63.39 to 74.99 rubles. These figures illustrate the stronger price pressure faced by urban consumers, where demand intensifies and distribution costs can be higher.
Across the broader Russian Federation, production levels for gasoline slipped by 0.6 percent during the week, while diesel production declined more sharply by 4.5 percent, totaling 780.6 thousand tons for gasoline and 1.572 million tons for diesel. The reduction in output for both fuel types may contribute to ongoing price dynamics, especially if demand remains steady or grows, influencing market equilibrium in the near term.
On September 20, wholesale fuel prices in Russia experienced a notable uptick in transactions on the St. Petersburg International Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange, marking a sharp price movement that traders and buyers watched closely. Market participants often interpret such movements as signals of tightening supply conditions or shifting expectations about future demand, prompting strategic adjustments across wholesale and retail channels.
Industry observers have noted that Neft Dyukov, who formerly chaired a major energy company, warned about the potential for gasoline and diesel shortages arising from protective duties. This perspective points to policy-driven risks that can influence price trajectories, supply security, and the availability of fuels in critical markets. Stakeholders—from motorists to logistics providers—may need to adapt to these regulatory factors as they evolve.