Novak asks Russian regulator to look at retail fuel prices in South, Far East, Siberia and eliminate disparities

MOSCOW. April 26 (Interfax) - Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has ordered the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) to analyse retail prices at filling stations and small-scale wholesale prices for fuel in regions of Russia's Southern Federal District, Siberia and the Far East and eliminate disparities, the government's Telegram channel reported.

The order was given following a meeting on railway shipments of oil products to the domestic market. Participants in the meeting discussed train shipments of gasoline and diesel fuel from refineries to meet consumer demand and compliance with delivery schedules.

The Energy Ministry reported that gasoline and diesel production stabilized in April and shipments to the domestic market exceed last year's figures, while exports have decreased. Retail fuel prices are currently rising more slowly than the rate of inflation.

Novak also instructed oil companies to present plans to the Energy Ministry and Russian Railways (RZD) for shipments of oil products to the domestic and foreign markets for May in order to ensure timely scheduling of shipments.