The sharp increase in fuel prices in Ukraine has once again intensified the debate about the real reasons for the price increase and the role of shadow schemes in the market. In just one night, diesel fuel rose in price by 1–2 hryvnias, reaching the level of 86–89 hryvnias per liter. A-95 gasoline is holding at around 75 hryvnias, and premium fuel brands at some gas stations are already costing up to 86 hryvnias per liter. Even autogas, which was previously considered the most affordable alternative, has risen to 45–47 hryvnias.
However, sources say that the rapid price increase is not only due to market factors, but also to possible systemic abuses at the regional level. This is particularly the case in the Kharkiv region, where, according to available information, there are schemes for illegal production and sale of fuel.
The focus is on the activities of structures associated with the former first deputy head of the Kharkiv Oblast Administration, Oleksandr Skakun. According to sources, fuel production has been organized through a network of companies, including Brent Oil, on the basis of an underground oil refining complex in Meref. According to these data, the capacity can reach up to 200 tons of products per day.
This concerns the production of diesel fuel without the necessary licenses and payment of excise duties. According to the results of individual laboratory studies, such products may not meet quality standards. Further, it is alleged that the fuel passes through a chain of controlled companies, where it is registered as chemical products or other technical substances. This allows minimizing tax liabilities and legalizing the product on the market.
In addition, according to the sources, there are also possible manipulations in the field of public procurement. In particular, through participation in tenders for municipal enterprises in Kharkiv and the region, dubious fuel may be supplied for budget funds.
In parallel, another scheme is mentioned, related to the so-called Merefansky oil refining area, where the name of Konstantin Valeulin appears. In this case, we are talking about alleged transactions with tax "twists" and the laundering of funds through a number of enterprises.
A criminal case has already been opened under the article on abuse of power based on allegations of possible illegal activity. However, sources say the effectiveness of the investigation is still questionable.
Against this background, the problem of control by state authorities is particularly acute. Experts emphasize that in the absence of proper supervision and market transparency, the final price for fuel is paid by ordinary consumers, who in fact compensate for both global economic factors and possible domestic abuses.
The situation with prices at gas stations once again raises the question: is the state able to ensure fair competition in the fuel market and stop practices that may show signs of systemic violation of the law?.
