According to recent statements, there are no plans to increase gasoline prices in Mexico for the time being. This decision is a result of the government’s efforts to maintain price stability and avoid speculation.
Factors Influencing Gasoline Prices
Several factors contribute to the variation in gasoline prices across different regions in Mexico. Transportation logistics play a significant role, with areas far from refineries and storage centers experiencing higher prices. For instance, in the BajÃo region, Premium gasoline can cost up to 26.89 pesos per liter due to its reliance on pipelines from the Tula refinery or the ports of Manzanillo.
In contrast, border areas like Tijuana and Palenque face higher prices, reaching 26.99 pesos per liter, due to the distances between storage centers and international price competition. On the other hand, municipalities near refineries or with high competition, such as Minatitlán, Veracruz, Azcapotzalco in Mexico City, and Puebla, tend to have lower prices, averaging around 23 pesos per liter.
No Maximum Price for Gasoline
It is worth noting that there is no maximum price for gasoline in Mexico, a policy that has been in place since the 2013 Energy Reform. However, the government is committed to reducing price variations that may impact the economy.
In the past, measures such as the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) have been implemented to manage fuel costs and curb inflation. The government has also engaged in dialogues with businessmen in the fuel sector to study price variations and find solutions that benefit both distributors and consumers.
Challenges in Maintaining Gasoline Price Stability
Despite the government’s efforts, maintaining a standard cost for gasoline remains a challenge due to logistics and dynamic market variations. Areas far from storage centers and refineries tend to experience higher prices, especially during periods of high demand.
The business sector has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the government to reduce the effects on consumers. However, transportation and storage costs are crucial in determining prices, making it difficult to establish a fixed amount without variations.
Government Commitment to Price Stability
The Mexican government, led by Claudia Sheinbaum, has reaffirmed its commitment to avoiding a gas shock and keeping gasoline prices within reasonable margins. Through dialogue with gas businessmen, the intervention of Pemex and the Ministry of Energy, and the strategic use of the IEPS, the government aims to guarantee that consumers do not face disproportionate costs.
This comprehensive approach not only protects the economy of Mexican households but also reinforces confidence in the government’s ability to manage the challenges derived from the global market and internal dynamics. With these measures, it is expected that the price of gasoline will remain stable, only reflecting inflationary variations and avoiding speculative practices that could negatively impact the population.