Over the past three weeks, gas stations in the country have reported a slight increase in fuel prices. In just about 20 days, the cost of mainstream fuels has increased by approximately 10 stotinki, according to average market data, bTV reported.
Before the announcement of US sanctions against "Lukoil", the lowest gasoline prices were around 2.40 leva, and now fuel costs around 4 stotinki more.
Diesel is becoming more expensive - by up to 10 stotinki per liter.
Consumers say that the increase is moderate, but it is already being felt in the budget. "4-5 stotinki, maybe. It's bearable, but I'm already thinking about an electric car," says one driver.
Others are looking for ways to compensate for the increase: "I fill up here because of the discount on diesel. Otherwise, it feels like it," shares a gas station customer.
Gas station managers confirm the trend and link it to both international quotes and market uncertainty surrounding "Lukoil".
"Diesel has generally increased by about 10-11 stotinki. Gasoline is up by 4-5 stotinki," explains the industry.
According to them, a change of 3-5 dollars per barrel on international markets means about 10 stotinki increase in the price of the column in Bulgaria.