Discontinuing the sale of AI-80 petrol will result in price hikes — CB

The abolition of AI-80 gasoline production and sales will affect inflation in Uzbekistan, Central Bank Chairman Timur Ishmetov said.

According to him, this factor has already been included in the updated forecast. It is assumed that by the end of 2025, inflation will be at 8.7%. This figure is worse than expected at the beginning of 2025 (7−8%) and at the end of the first quarter (8%). It is reported that the AI-80 situation is important not only for current prices but also for the population’s perception of future dynamics.

Among the goods and factors exerting increased pressure on inflation is gasoline. For us, in the medium term, this is one of the concerning areas. Most importantly, this, in addition to inflation, is one of the main factors in the inflation expectations of the population, — he said.

It should be recalled that earlier the authorities moved the date of complete abandonment of AI-80 dirty gasoline from 2025 to 2028. Uzbekistan is one of the few countries in the world that produces and uses AI-80 without any restrictions. At the same time, neighboring Afghanistan is the second and last country in the world to use AI-80 gasoline.

Позже, 2 сентября, в Узбекистане полностью прекратили продажу бензина АИ-80 через биржевые торги. «Узбекнефтегаз» поэтапно перейдет на производство АИ-92, а с сентября на биржевые торги выставлять только высокооктановый бензин.

Additionally, until the end of the year, the use of fuel oil by enterprises producing thermal and electrical energy across all regions of the republic will also be entirely prohibited. An exception will be made for cases of using fuel oil as emergency fuel, subject to notification of the Ministry of Ecology and the Cabinet of Ministers.