The Superintendência de Proteção e Defesa do Consumidor (Procon-BA) has taken action against Acelen, the company managing the Mataripe Refinery in Bahia, following complaints regarding rising fuel prices. The agency has observed that the price of gasoline has notably increased, with drivers feeling the impact of the hikes, the most recent occurring on the 10th of this month. The rise in prices marks the second increase in just five days, prompting the need for scrutiny from the consumer protection agency.

In light of these price adjustments, Procon-BA has demanded that Acelen provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the economic reasons behind the increases due to global oil prices and their effects on the national market. The agency requested that the refinery submit documentation that outlines the costs related to fuel acquisition and the pricing structure employed. This process is part of a larger initiative to ensure fair pricing practices within the fuel market and protect consumers from unjustified price hikes.

Furthermore, the notification requires Acelen to respond within five days, providing detailed information regarding price adjustments for various types of fuel, including conventional and additive gasoline, regular and S10 diesel, and ethanol. This move comes after the Implementation of Operation “De olho no preço” by Procon-BA, designed to monitor and regulate fuel pricing practices in the state of Bahia, ensuring that consumers are not unfairly burdened by rising fuel costs.