Kazakhstan Lifts Price Freeze on AI-92 Gasoline, Expects Gradual Increase

The temporary moratorium on price increases for AI-92 gasoline in Kazakhstan has officially ended. Vice Minister of Energy Sungat Yessimkhanov addressed the potential future price trends, stating that while a sharp spike is not anticipated, a gradual rise in cost is possible.

Yessimkhanov noted that a similar situation occurred previously when the fuel market was deregulated without leading to sudden price surges. He attributed this stability to coordinated efforts by government bodies. "This is the result of joint work not only by the Ministry of Energy but also by the Agency for Protection and Development of Competition, local administrations (akimats), and other state agencies to prevent anti-competitive actions," the Vice Minister stated during a government briefing.

He acknowledged that some increase is likely, citing significantly higher fuel prices in neighboring countries. "Perhaps a slight increase is possible. You can see that fuel costs much more in neighboring countries. But I think there will be no sharp jumps," Yessimkhanov added.

The official confirmed that price monitoring will continue, including measures to prevent excessive profits in the market. However, he did not rule out a gradual upward adjustment in fuel costs.

The moratorium was initially introduced in October 2025. Its key principle was to fix retail prices for AI-92 gasoline and diesel fuel at the levels each gas station network had as of October 16, 2025, without establishing a single maximum price nationwide.

This policy led to the formation of specific price corridors at major filling station networks: AI-92 gasoline ranged from 213 to 239 tenge per liter, while diesel fuel was priced between 317 and 337 tenge per liter.

The decision to implement the freeze was made jointly with the Agency for Protection and Development of Competition. Market participants were informed of the government's stance against further price hikes. Oversight of the moratorium's compliance was entrusted to the Ministry of Energy alongside regional headquarters under local administrations and market players themselves.

AI-92 gasoline remains crucial for most Kazakh drivers, as a significant portion of the national vehicle fleet is designed for this octane rating. Consequently, any changes in its price directly impact living standards and inflation rates in the country.