Fuel Price Hike Driven by Global Conditions, Not IMF Pressure: Finance Minister

Speaking to journalists at his office in the Secretariat on Sunday, April 19, 2026, he explained that the decision was driven primarily by current global circumstances and the volatility of energy prices in the international market.

The Finance Minister noted that discussions between the government, the IMF, and the World Bank are still ongoing, characterizing them as a continuous process. Consequently, he dismissed claims that the price hike was a condition set by these institutions. "Many are questioning the government's fiscal capacity," the Minister remarked. "We have adjusted fuel prices based on internal economic management and the global landscape. The IMF has no involvement in this specific decision."

Economic experts suggest that rising tensions in the Middle East and subsequent supply disruptions are forcing developing nations to adapt their energy policies, similar to the shifts seen in developed international economies. The Finance Minister emphasized that this difficult but necessary decision was made to maintain national economic stability. He expressed optimism that the adjustment would eventually bring discipline to market management.