Russia’s Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) has launched a formal antitrust investigation into Gazprom, accusing the state-controlled energy giant of withholding gasoline supplies from the domestic market in a move that may have artificially inflated fuel prices.
The FAS alleges that Gazprom limited gasoline sales on the wholesale market without justifiable economic grounds, violating competitive market principles and restricting supply during a period of heightened domestic demand.
In recent weeks, fuel shortages have intensified in certain Russian regions, prompting concerns from local authorities and independent retailers. Market analysts suggest Gazprom’s decision to scale back supply may have contributed to an unusual price spike, particularly as refinery maintenance and export priorities put further strain on national distribution channels.
The FAS has issued a directive requiring Gazprom to provide detailed documentation on its trading volumes, internal fuel allocations, and export contracts. If found guilty, the company could face substantial fines and regulatory penalties, with potential impacts on both domestic pricing policy and export commitments.
This move marks one of the most high-profile antitrust cases in Russia’s energy sector in recent years, signaling a growing willingness by regulators to scrutinize even state-backed firms amid economic pressure and public discontent over rising fuel costs.
