Title: Government Affirms Stability in Fuel Pricing, Prioritizes Curbing Smuggling in Energy Policy
In a significant announcement regarding the nation’s energy policy, government officials have confirmed the continued stability of subsidized gasoline prices for the public, while outlining a strategic, internally-focused approach to broader fuel consumption reforms.
Core Subsidies Remain Unchanged
Government Spokeswoman Fatemeh Mahagerani has clarified that there are no current plans to alter the price of rationed, subsidized gasoline. The fuel allocated to citizens’ quotas will continue to be sold at the established rates of 1,500 and 3,000 tomans per liter. This decision ensures predictable energy costs for the vast majority of the population.
A Gradual, Government-First Reform Strategy
Emphasizing a cautious and responsible methodology, officials stated that any future adjustments to energy carrier prices would begin within the government’s own apparatus. Jafar Ghaempaneh, the Vice President for Executive Affairs, previously underscored this “internal genesis” model, stating that reforms in the consumption of electricity, gas, and gasoline would first be implemented in government buildings and for official vehicles. This approach is designed to ensure that the burden of policy changes does not fall directly on the public.
Combating Fuel Smuggling: A Key Priority
A central theme of the new energy directives is a firm stance against the smuggling of subsidized fuel. The Spokeswoman highlighted that while quotas for citizens are secure, the government cannot allow fuel, which carries a high production cost for the state, to be illicitly exported. Curbing this smuggling is a principal focus, aimed at protecting national resources and ensuring the sustainability of the subsidy system.
Stability for the Majority
Official estimates indicate that the current rationing system—providing 60 liters at 1,500 tomans and 100 liters at 3,000 tomans—adequately meets the monthly needs of approximately 95% of vehicle owners. This widespread coverage is a key factor in maintaining public satisfaction and market stability.
Learning from Global Precedents
The government’s measured stance appears informed by international experiences. The announcement implicitly references the severe economic and social consequences witnessed in some oil-rich nations that implemented either unsustainable, near-free pricing or abrupt subsidy removals. The current Iranian strategy seems to align more closely with models that emphasize gradual, targeted reforms to reduce financial pressure on the state while safeguarding the livelihood of the general public.
The overarching message from officials is one of deliberate and transparent management. While a potential third pricing tier for certain vehicle classes remains under review, the government has committed to pre-announcing any future decisions. The immediate path forward prioritizes administrative reform from within, the preservation of public subsidies, and a determined campaign against fuel smuggling.