The Consumer Protection Commission carried out a series of inspections of commercial practices on the fuel market in the country, covering large gas station chains. As a result of the inspection activities, it was established that traders have increased the average retail selling prices of fuels compared to previous periods. In view of the findings, the inspected traders were required to submit detailed written statements, accompanied by evidence and documents explaining the reasons for the increase in the final selling prices of fuels. These opinions are expected to be provided within five days, clearly stating the objective economic premises, if any, that justify the price adjustments made, the CPC reports.
The legislation provides that commercial practices shall be carried out in compliance with the principles of good faith and professional responsibility, taking into account how they affect the choice and behavior of consumers. Unjustified price increases, especially when there is a lack of sufficient information about the economic factors that would impose them, may be considered a violation of these principles.
The Commission will continue to carefully monitor the development of the fuel market in the coming months and is ready to take the necessary measures to protect consumers in the event that practices are identified that may place them at a disadvantage and lead to unjustified price increases.