Fuel imports drop considerably in 2009

TIRANA, June 8؏fficial data from the General Directory of Customs has revealed a constant drop in fuel imports during 2009. Statistics show that only 38,928 tones were imported in January, 35,870 tones in February, 34,069 tones in March, and only 23,409 tones in April.
According to experts, the current drop in fuel imports, also a sign of decreased fuel consumption, is caused by the global economic crisis which has affected Albanian incomes for months now. Another factor, already known by citizens, is high fuel prices.
The drop in consumption was expected, if anything it has come somewhat late as the worldwide economic recession is also arriving in Albania.
The drop in custom revenues from fuel imports is also expected to affect budget revenues.
However, experts expect an increase in fuel demand in summer due to tourists and immigrants returning home for summer vacations.
Fuel prices increased by 10 Lek these two week, reflecting a price increase in global stock exchanges where petrol was quoted at $69.5 USD per barrel.