Russian energy ministry warns of gasoline shortages

Several Russian regions may face gasoline shortages by the end of fall, Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Novak said on Wednesday. The minister made the announcement at a government commission on the fuel and energy sector on Monday but the minister’s warning became known only on Wednesday, RIANOVOSTI reported. Gasoline shortages across Russia in October-November 2012 could reach an estimated 400,000 tons of fuel, or 15 percent of Russia’s monthly consumption. Gasoline shortages in Moscow may hit 69,000 tons in October and 62,000 tons in November. Potential gasoline shortages may push up fuel prices. The Russian State Statistics service Rosstat has reported gasoline prices have risen by an average of 3.2 percent since the start of the year, with the price hikes largely occurring in the past few weeks.