The Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan has recently released a draft order to adjust gasoline and diesel fuel prices for foreign citizens, while maintaining the current prices for Kazakhstani citizens. The proposed prices for foreign citizens are set at 245 tenge per liter for gasoline grades AI-92 and AI-93, and 315 tenge per liter for diesel fuel.
Domestic drivers, upon presentation of their Kazakhstani driver's license and vehicle registration certificate, will continue to pay 205 tenge per liter for gasoline (up to 300 liters per day) and 295 tenge per liter for diesel fuel.
The Ministry of Energy's rationale behind this decision is to uphold fuel balance in the domestic market and reduce the risks of fuel outflows and illicit oil product exports. The disparity in fuel prices between Kazakhstan and neighboring countries such as Tashkent, Bishkek, and Orenburg highlights the necessity of such measures.
While some experts, like economist Rasul Rysmambetov, acknowledge the Ministry's predicament, others, like economic commentator Tulegen Askarov, criticize the proposal as "non-market" and "discriminatory."
Fuel smuggling from Kazakhstan has been a persistent issue, with numerous attempts thwarted at the borders with Russia and Uzbekistan. The draft order is currently open for public feedback on the "Open NPA" website until April 18, with minimal comments received thus far.
