Representatives of several networks of gas stations are calling for the repeal of the price cap on petroleum products by applying a fixed commercial margin by ANRE, because this practice limits the possibilities to cover costs. Economic agents discussed this issue at the Economic Council of the Moldovan Prime Minister's Office, during the meeting of the Working Group "Stimulating and Maintaining Private Investments", headed by Ana Groza, FIA Executive Director.

The event was attended by Victor Parlicov, Minister of Energy, ANRE directors, the leadership of the Competition Council, representatives of the oil industry Bemol, Petrom and Rompetrol, members of the Association of Foreign Investors in the RM, the European Business Association and the American Chamber of Commerce in Moldova.

Representatives of the companies claim that since the current Methodology for calculating the prices of oil products (diesel and gasoline) has been applied, the situation on the market has worsened and several local companies have closed gas stations, claiming that the price ceiling calculated and set by ANRE for gasoline and diesel does not cover their costs. At the same time, the energy crisis and the war in Ukraine have made energy resources more expensive and increased the costs of maintaining and operating gas stations.

The participants of the meeting agreed on the need for independent research to show the situation created on the market and to come up with proposals on overcoming the challenges. The new pricing mechanism for petroleum products, approved by the Parliament, entered into force at the beginning of September 2021.