The exchange of the currency in our country will not lead to an increase in fuel prices. Their prices are stable, announced Svetoslav Benchev from the Bulgarian Oil and Gas Association on NOVA NEWS.
"Whatever the prices are in levs, they will be in euros. If there are changes, they will be related only to the international crude oil market, not to the adoption of the euro," he assured.
Benchev explained that against the background of the stability of international markets, fuel prices in Bulgaria are currently recording a slight decrease – about 1%. This is expressed in a decrease of 1-2 stotinki for gasoline and diesel. On world exchanges, oil is trading around $63-65 per barrel.
"We expect stagnation at these levels. There are no factors that would lead to a sharp increase or decrease," Benchev emphasized.
The dual announcement of prices – in leva and euro – will begin about a month after the final decision of the Eurogroup. This is expected at the end of July or the beginning of August.
"There will be no rounding. Or if there is, it will be to our detriment, not to the detriment of the client", he was categorical.
Regarding the adaptation of cash registers, Benchev announced that active work is being done on technical compatibility:
"The process is not easy, but we are already working under Regulation 18. There will be no obstacles", Benchev said.
He specified that the prices on the boards (so-called totems) at gas stations will remain in only one currency, due to technical limitations. The dual announcement will be available on cash receipts and filling stations.
Benchev announced the launch of a European initiative to promote renewable and synthetic fuels – "Tour of Europe", which will take place on June 13 from 10:30 to 12:30. at "Alexander Battenberg" Square in Sofia.
"We want to show that the energy transition will not happen only with electric vehicles. There are alternatives – bio- and synthetic fuels with zero emissions that can be used in existing engines," said Benchev.
The event will demonstrate cars and trucks running on such fuels, with the goal of raising awareness about alternative options for sustainable transport.
According to Benchev, there are two serious biofuel producers in Bulgaria, but prices are still relatively high – by about 30-40% above conventional fuels. He called on the state to stimulate the use of such fuels, for example by temporarily reducing the excise tax:
"The state has no obligation to do this, but it will be forced to act in this direction, because we cannot cope with electric trucks alone," the expert warned.