Paknejad, speaking on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting, said that
during the first week of implementing the new scheme, gasoline consumption fell
by 9 million liters per day. The policy encourages the use of personal fuel
cards rather than traditional station cards, aiming to curb overall demand.
“From the start of the scheme until Dec. 21, gasoline dispensed
through station cards fell by 24 million liters daily. Of this, 15 million
liters were transferred to personal cards, leaving a net reduction of 9 million
liters,” Paknejad said. He emphasized that longer-term data would be needed to
assess the policy’s full effects.
Legal Victory in London
On the international front, Paknejad confirmed that legal efforts
regarding the seizure of the Iranian pension fund’s London property were
successful. Appeals by Iran were upheld by U.K. courts, and the case will be
reviewed.
Gas Production and Power Supply
Iran has achieved record gas injection into the national network,
Paknejad said, noting that winter demand for residential, commercial, and
industrial consumption will prioritize gas distribution, sometimes limiting
supply to power plants. “Some of the shortfall at power plants will be offset
with liquid fuel, for which conditions are favorable this year,” he added.
Fuel Card Transfers and Price Outlook
The minister also outlined plans to enable the transfer of gasoline
quotas from fuel cards to bank cards through a “switch” mechanism, with
implementation expected in the coming months.
Regarding gasoline price adjustments, Paknejad said a government
committee would evaluate the need for increases based on market conditions, and
no immediate rise is expected.
Oil Sales and Development Projects
On Iran’s oil sales in Asia, Paknejad refrained from commenting on
market dynamics, noting that budget projections are based on expert assessments
and global price trends. He added that discounts on oil sales have declined
since September last year.
Paknejad also reassured that development of the Azadegan oil field is
ongoing, with current production at 230,000–240,000 barrels per day. A
finalized contract will accelerate development further.
Addressing reports of 50 million barrels of Iranian oil “floating at
sea,” Paknejad said these shipments are part of regular logistics and not
indicative of unsold stock.
Public Response to Multi-Vehicle Declaration System
The ministry has received more than 450,000 voluntary registrations in
a new system for owners of multiple vehicles to declare one car for fuel quota
allocation. Motorcycles are not subject to any restrictions, he noted.