Bulgarian Consumer Protection Commission investigates fuel markups

The Bulgarian Commission for Consumer Protection (CCP) has completed inspections of approximately 200 gas stations to investigate fuel pricing practices. Maya Manolova, chair of the CCP, reported that while retailers have reduced markups on gasoline and diesel to compensate for rising wholesale costs, propane-butane markups have increased by approximately 20%.

Specifically, diesel markups decreased by about 40% and gasoline markups by over 30%. The CCP is investigating whether the increased propane-butane prices are due to market factors or speculation. Violations could result in fines of up to 10,000 euros per product, though Manolova noted the commission aims to avoid bankrupting small businesses.

Manolova also highlighted the economic pressure on Bulgarian households, noting that while incomes are rising, the country's purchasing power remains at only 68% of the European average, while food prices have reached 93% of the central European level.