The Public Services Regulatory Authority (ARESEP) found a total of 22 gas stations across the country that were expending less fuel than what consumers paid for.
Higher fuel prices approved last Friday haven't even gone into effect yet, but that hasn't stopped the National Oil Refinery (RECOPE) from seeking a new hike of ₡9 in the per-liter prices of gasoline and diesel.
Recent good news for drivers lasted less than a month as per-liter prices of “Super” and “Plus” gasoline on Saturday increased by ₡5. Diesel increased ₡3.
Although the Public Services Regulatory Authority last week announced a price decrease, Costa Rica still has the most expensive gas in Central America, according to the latest consumer report by the Central American Committee for Cooperation on Hydrocarbons.
The high fuel prices are due in part to Costa Rica's 29 percent gas tax, which goes directly to the National Roadway Council (CONAVI) for roadwork, but the tax revenue hasn't been able to improve the country's roads.
