Russia's Novak asks agencies, oil cos to tighten control over fuel supply to regions eliminate imbalances, prevent price spikes

MOSCOW. Aug 18 (Interfax) - Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak asked the relevant agencies and oil companies to tighten control over regional fuel supplies, promptly eliminate imbalances if necessary, prevent price spikes at all levels, and maintain special control over fuel prices for agricultural producers and retail prices at filling stations following the latest meeting on the fuel market situation, the government press service said.

"The situation with fuel supplies in the domestic market, including in the regions where the situation is most strained, was discussed, as was the balance of fuel supply and demand in the regional markets of the Tula, Tambov, Irkutsk and Penza regions, as well as the Republic of Mordovia. The Federal Anti-monopoly Service reported on its analysis of exchange, wholesale and retail prices, as well as instances of unjustified fuel price increases. Cases have already been opened in connection with the identified incidents, and appropriate measures have been taken against market participants," the press service said.

The FAS also said efforts continued to conclude standard agreements between regions and owners of independent filling station chains ensuring fair retail prices at privately owned gas stations. It said farmers had enough fuel, the harvest was going as planned, and northern deliveries as scheduled.