Central Bank of Uzbekistan: Phase-out of Ai-80 gasoline will increase inflationary pressure

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Central Bank Chairman Timur Ishmetov stated that the discontinuation of production and sale of Ai-80 gasoline will have a noticeable impact on inflation in Uzbekistan.

Speaking at a press conference on 11 September, he noted that this factor has already been incorporated into the updated forecast: inflation for 2025 is expected to reach 8.7%, exceeding early-year projections of 7–8% and the first-quarter estimate of 8%.

“Among goods and factors exerting upward pressure on inflation, gasoline occupies a significant position. In the medium term, this is one of the concerning areas for us,” Ishmetov emphasized. He added that the Ai-80 situation affects not only current prices but also the inflation expectations of the population.

It is worth recalling that from 2 September, JSC “Uzbekneftegaz” ceased selling Ai-80 automotive gasoline through exchange trading as part of the implementation of the 2025 state program. According to the plan, the country will gradually transition to producing and selling higher-octane fuels. By the end of 2025, Ai-80 stocks are expected to be fully depleted, and from 2026 the company will focus on producing Ai-92 and Ai-95 gasoline.