Polish drivers have reason to monitor fuel prices more closely, as Orlen has announced significant reductions in wholesale fuel costs. The latest adjustments reveal a 34 groszy per liter decrease for Pb95 gasoline compared to this year’s peak. For diesel fuel, the reduction stands at approximately 30 groszy.
According to Orlen’s wholesale pricing data, the company has implemented further price cuts. The price for Pb95 gasoline has dropped by 12 groszy per liter, while diesel has decreased by 11 groszy. These wholesale prices play a crucial role in determining the retail prices displayed at gas stations.
This price reduction comes at a time when fuel in Poland remains relatively expensive. In September, wholesale fuel prices surged. By mid-month, the price for Pb95 gasoline reached 6395 zł per thousand liters, while diesel prices hit 7388 zł, marking the highest levels of the year.
What Caused the Price Surge?
The primary issue affecting fuel prices continues to be the global oil market. Oil prices have surpassed $100 per barrel, which directly increases production costs for fuels. Drivers of diesel vehicles have felt this impact the hardest, with the average price for diesel nearing 9 zł per liter in Poland during September.
However, the price at the pump is influenced by more than just crude oil prices. Other factors include the prices of refined fuel products, the exchange rate of the złoty against the dollar, transportation and storage costs, margins, as well as taxes and fees included in the price per liter of fuel.
Thus, a decline in crude oil prices or wholesale pricing does not always equate to an immediate and corresponding decrease at retail stations. Nevertheless, the current downward trend in wholesale prices is beneficial for drivers.
Orlen’s substantial cuts are noteworthy, as wholesale prices were sharply rising just last month. The company is now partially reversing those increases, which may lead to a decrease in pressure on retail fuel prices in the upcoming days.
