Since the beginning of the conflict in Iran on February 28, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, fuel prices in Bulgaria have risen sharply, according to data from the National Revenue Agency, cited by BTA, reports News.bg.
The average price of diesel in our country reached 1.74 euros per liter as of April 4, which represents a growth of 37% compared to the levels on February 28. Over the same period, A95 gasoline has increased in price by 18.7% to an average of 1.46 euros per liter. At the beginning of the period, gasoline was sold for an average of 1.23 euros, and diesel - for 1.27 euros per liter.
The NRA data is based on information from fiscal receipts submitted in real time by fuel traders, with the agency publishing daily average prices and monthly statistics on their changes.
The price increase comes against the backdrop of a sharp increase in crude oil prices after the start of the US-Israeli offensive against Iran and Tehran's subsequent retaliatory actions. The tension in the region and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant part of the world's oil and gas supplies pass, are putting serious pressure on energy markets.
In response to the price increase, the Bulgarian caretaker government, headed by Andrey Gyurov, introduced a compensation mechanism for individuals. Car owners with lower incomes can receive a monthly allowance of 20 euros if the price of fuel exceeds 1.60 euros per liter for three consecutive days. The measure has been in effect since March 24.
Citizens with incomes up to a certain threshold are entitled to compensation, with nearly 51,000 applications submitted so far, Social Minister Hasan Ademov announced. However, a number of business representatives describe the state support as insufficient against the backdrop of rising energy costs.