Fuel prices are increasing in Russia
In the summer of 2025, motorists in Russia can anticipate gasoline prices to escalate at a rate roughly double the average monthly inflation. This forecast comes from Sofya Blagova, an economist and instructor at the Institute of International Economic Relations.
Blagova suggests that the enhanced petrol prices can be traced back to a surge in demand during the summer holiday season, where families embark on lengthy car journeys. Moreover, the increased consumption of gasoline on weekends and holidays contributes to the rise.
According to Blagova's predictions, the petrol prices will continue to rise even post-vacation, with the expansion rate contingent on other factors. Notably, the excise tax on automotive fuel is anticipated to escalate by 4% from the beginning of 2026, as compared to 2025. Other influencing factors may include shifts in geopolitical scenarios and domestic tax burden.
As of May 2025, the typical cost of AI-92 and AI-95 gasoline in Russia was 56.97 rubles and 61.29 rubles per liter, respectively—showing a 0.39% and 0.48% hike compared to April's figures. It is worth noting that the disparity in prices among fuel stations may vary throughout the month. Historically, the growth rates of gasoline prices have exceeded the inflation rate during summer months, although not surpassing the inflation indicators.
A recent social media trend touted a cashback incentive for Russian citizens, offering 35% of the fuel cost at gas stations, allowing for gasoline purchase at just 41 rubles per liter. However, upon evaluation by Gazeta.Ru, the proposed link appears to be a potential phishing scam, posing a threat to users' security.
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Beckoning concerns for the industry and finance sectors, Sophya Blagova, an economist, foresees the energy sector, particularly gasoline, witnessing sustained price hikes. This rise is because of a surge in demand over the summer holiday period and weekend fuel consumption. Moreover, the impending 4% increase in excise tax on automotive fuel from early 2026, coupled with geopolitical shifts and changes in domestic tax burden, could further escalate petrol prices.
