Hraparak: Gas Prices Set to Increase Only for Armenia

Hraparak newspaper reports: “Starting July 1, Gazprom will increase gas prices in Russia by 1.4%. Since the 'gas needle' is the biggest political tool, according to our sources, this slight increase is primarily aimed at bringing Armenia and Belarus, who consider the anticipated gas price hikes as unpartnerly and a tool of pressure, to their senses. Russia is subtly preparing for the scheme of gas price increases.

We attempted to clarify with Gazprom-Armenia whether the increase in Russia on July 1 will be projected onto Armenia. The press service stated, 'Negotiations regarding the tariff are in the final stages, and the company will announce its position on the matter soon.' However, according to our sources, starting January 1, 2020, the gas price for the Armenian market will increase. How much? 'The calculations are not yet finished; we will keep you informed once they are finalized.'

Is it dependent on political developments? 'Why not, it could be,' they replied. Incidentally, the tariff revision will be exclusively for Armenia; Belarus's increased tariff will be compensated by Russia from its internal resources.