Expert explains how the increase in gas transportation tariffs will affect food prices.

Food prices in Ukraine may rise by 20% due to an increase in gas transportation tariffs - Oleg Popenko

Food prices in Ukraine will rise by 20% due to an increase in gas transportation tariffs, said the head of the Union of Consumers of Utility Services Oleg Popenko.

Popenko noted that this increase in tariffs will immediately affect the cost of electricity, leading to an increase in prices for all goods and services. Thus, food prices may increase by 10-20% in the first half of the current year.

Food prices in Ukraine could rise by 20% due to a 'jump' in gas transportation tariffs. - Oleg Popenko

Parliament may lift the moratorium on increasing gas tariffs for the population, but this may only be possible after the war is over. Currently, the moratorium is in effect due to the requirement of the International Monetary Fund that utility tariffs correspond to market rates. However, the concept of 'market tariff' in Ukraine is varied, leading to uncertainty.

The expert also warns of a possible increase in electricity prices, expected from June 1. Also, considering the rising cost of gas transportation in Ukraine, the gas tariff for the population may rise to 10-12 hryvnias per cubic meter in the coming years.

The increase in gas transportation tariffs will lead to higher prices for all goods and services in Ukraine, as the cost of gas affects the cost of electricity. In particular, food prices may rise by 10-20% in the first half of 2025.