China raises retail fuel prices

BEIJING - China will raise the retail prices of gasoline and diesel from Saturday, the fifth increase since the end of March, the country's top economic planner announced Friday.

As international oil prices have risen, the retail prices of gasoline and diesel will rise by 260 yuan (about $40.7) and 250 yuan per tonne, respectively, according to the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

Under the current pricing mechanism, if international crude oil prices change by more than 50 yuan per tonne and remain at that level for 10 working days, the prices of refined oil products such as gasoline and diesel in China are adjusted accordingly.

The economic planner has asked major Chinese oil companies, including China National Petroleum, China Petrochemical, and China National Offshore Oil, to ensure stable supply and pricing.

The NDRC said it would closely monitor the effects of the current pricing mechanism and make improvements in response to global fluctuations.

A recent report by the NDRC pointed out that geopolitical risks would be a major factor affecting oil prices in the short term, especially prospects of renewed US sanctions on Iran.

In the long run, more focus should be put on increasing US shale gas output and OPEC production cuts, according to the NDRC.