Uzbekistan Competition Body Probes Gas Price Collusion

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Competition Committee of Uzbekistan has initiated proceedings against several compressed natural gas (CNG) stations in the Samarkand region over allegations of coordinated price increases for methane, according to a statement from the agency’s press service.

The investigation was launched following a complaint from residents of the Payariq district, who reported an unjustified rise in fuel prices at local filling stations, as well as significant price discrepancies compared with neighboring areas.

During monitoring activities, specialists analyzed the situation and conducted consumer surveys at CNG stations. The findings showed that 11 out of 12 stations in the district simultaneously increased the price of gas by 300 soums per cubic meter starting from 5 January.

According to the committee, the stations are operated by eight enterprises, including Temur-Bek, Sadaf Agro Service, Raqobat Eco Gas Service, Jahongir Prestige, Khudoyberdi Ramziddin Autogas, Amirkhon Gas Service, Al-Asadbek Gas Petrol Invest, and Bakhrin Gas Oil.

The inspection also confirmed that prices at these stations were higher than those in neighboring districts. Based on the findings, a special commission initiated cases under Article 19 of the Law on Competition, which provides liability for anti-competitive coordinated actions.

Following the review, financial penalties were imposed on all companies involved. They were also instructed to eliminate the identified violations and to prevent similar cases in the future.