In Ukraine, a rise in fuel prices is expected due to the situation in the Middle East
The escalation of the situation in the Middle East has led to a sharp increase in oil prices, which may trigger a rise in fuel costs at Ukrainian gas stations in the near future. According to the director of the A-95 consulting group, Serhiy Kuyn, fuel prices could increase by 2–3 hryvnias as early as this week.
This is reported by AgroReview
Market Reaction and Traders’ Expectations
At the beginning of the week, many traders decided to take a pause, observing the situation. Only a few high-priced offers remained on the market from individual players such as UPG, ZPEC, and “Martin Trade.” Most operators refrained from active actions, awaiting stabilization of the situation. Some foreign suppliers also reported restrictions on additional volumes of supply.
Some gas station networks, which typically operate in the mid-price segment, are trying to follow market leaders, fearing a rapid shortage. In turn, large operators are seeking to hedge against possible risks, which may lead to a short-term increase in prices.
Fuel in Ukraine is Currently Not in Short Supply
Despite the market anxiety, experts assure that there is no fuel shortage in Ukraine. Stocks of gasoline and diesel fuel remain at sufficient levels, and the frost resistance factor is no longer relevant, positively impacting supply volumes. The market is even experiencing an oversupply of the product, and the issue of supplies from Hungary and Slovakia is not currently pressing.
“It seems that we will be flooded with gasoline in March, and there are also no signs of a shortage of diesel fuel. On the contrary, the disappearance of the frost resistance factor has opened all the floodgates. No one even mentions Hungarian-Slovak supplies because the market is oversaturated. So please, do not create panic; we are doing well!” – urged Kuyn.
Kuyn also emphasized that apocalyptic scenarios regarding the blockade of maritime straits are unfounded, as the global oil infrastructure is capable of withstanding such challenges, and preventive measures are already being taken. He compared the situation to last year’s attack on “UkrTatNafta,” highlighting that modern enterprises in Qatar and Saudi Arabia are significantly more resilient to such threats.
According to the expert’s estimates, after the situation stabilizes, the disappearance of the “Iranian factor” may contribute to a decrease in oil prices, and consequently, fuel prices in Ukraine. Kuyn advises against panic buying and encourages careful monitoring of developments, as the market has sufficient resource reserves to meet demand.