OREANDA-NEWS  Stock prices for gasoline in Russia soared to historic highs in the second half of August, while fuel shortages are already observed in a number of regions. Experts cite a problem with production as the main reason, Kommersant writes.

Pavel Karpus, partner of S+Consulting, recalled that several large oil refineries had been repaired at once, and difficult delivery to remote regions, including the south, Siberia and the Far East, was exacerbating the situation.

According to Maxim Dyachenko, managing partner of Proleum trader, market participants are increasingly worried about supply stability, so they are trying to buy fuel for the future. This not only leads to higher prices, but also prevents individual companies from purchasing the fuel needed to maintain sales.

The expert recalled that official statistics on stocks and production are closed, and statements by the authorities about their sufficiency are perceived in the opposite way. Even with indirect signs of a shortage, companies are switching to a strategy involving a shortage of fuel.

The current exchange trading model also provokes price increases. The fact is that there are more than a thousand people willing to buy fuel on the stock exchange, and the volumes offered on individual bases are extremely small. As a result, all shipments are sold out instantly, and only a few are bought.