An official notice has been issued, indicating that fuel costs are set to climb once more. Motorists are being advised to refuel before heading home from work today, as a fresh adjustment to domestic fuel prices takes effect later this evening. The 18th pricing window of the year for refined oil products in China opens at midnight tonight, with industry estimates projecting an increase of roughly 330 yuan per tonne for gasoline and diesel. This translates to an expected hike of about 0.26 to 0.29 yuan per litre for 92-octane petrol, edging 95-octane fuel closer to the 9-yuan-per-litre threshold.

Crude prices have surged past the $100 mark, hitting a near four-month peak. Escalating tensions in the Middle East on Thursday continued to drive international oil values upward. Futures settlements saw significant gains, with West Texas Intermediate crude closing at $102.48 per barrel, marking a 6.69% jump. Simultaneously, Brent crude settled at $107.63 a barrel, advancing by 6.34%.

To cushion the domestic economy from the impact of rising global oil prices and ensure stable operations and social welfare, temporary control measures have been implemented on domestic refined oil pricing, all while maintaining the existing pricing mechanism framework. Calculations based on the current system show that on September 11th, standard gasoline and diesel prices should have risen by 435 yuan and 420 yuan per tonne, respectively. However, after adjustments, the actual increases have been moderated to 260 yuan and 250 yuan per tonne. The National Development and Reform Commission will direct production and distribution enterprises to maximize output and transport logistics, guaranteeing a stable market supply. Furthermore, it will collaborate with relevant authorities to intensify market oversight, strictly penalising any unlawful activities such as failing to adhere to national pricing policies, all with the aim of preserving market order and safeguarding consumer interests.