New rise in fuel prices sparks public anger in Syria - Sarmad

Fuel prices in Syria have risen again, intensifying the anger and frustration among Syrian citizens who are enduring a dire economic situation.

The prices of petroleum products and fuels increased as of Friday morning, leaving Syrians bewildered about the reasons behind the repeated hikes and their impact on people’s lives.

According to the new pricing that took effect at fuel stations, the price of a liter of “Octane 90” gasoline rose to 14,500 Syrian pounds, while diesel was priced at 12,100 Syrian pounds. The cost of a household gas cylinder reached between 147,000 and 150,000 Syrian pounds. This comes after sharp price fluctuations in recent weeks, the latest of which involved an announcement of a significant drop in gas prices before costs surged once again.

This latest increase contradicts official statements that emphasized the need to alleviate the living burdens on citizens. The hike follows a series of recent decisions on fuel prices, including a mid-July adjustment that raised prices by nearly 12%. That move sparked widespread criticism, especially given that the sharp price swings occurred over short periods. It is well known to Syrians that rising energy costs directly affect the prices of basic goods, transportation fares, and service costs, amid declining incomes and the weakening purchasing power of the Syrian pound.

Syrians are demanding official explanations from authorities regarding the reasons for these successive increases and the mechanisms used to set prices. They are also calling for the implementation of more stable economic policies that would positively impact their livelihoods.