Experts interpret the regulation of gasoline and diesel prices this time.

Tian Lei, Deputy Director of the Energy Center of the Institute of Macroeconomic Research of China, stated that recently, due to the escalation of tensions between the US and Iran, international crude oil prices have risen significantly, with price increases of over 40% in various regions. Especially in the Middle East, crude oil prices have rapidly surged to over $150 per barrel, reaching record highs, an increase of over 130% compared to before the conflict. "China is a major importer of oil, with over 70% of our oil being imported. The increase in international crude oil prices directly raises the cost of our imports and oil use," Tian Lei said. It was noted that after the recent adjustments in domestic gasoline and diesel prices, the actual price increase was lower than what it should have been. Experts state that this move aims to ensure the stable operation of the domestic economy. Lu Zhichen, Deputy Director of the Price, Cost, and Certification Center of the National Development and Reform Commission, explained that according to the current domestic pricing mechanism for refined oil products, the maximum retail prices for gasoline and diesel should have been increased by 2205 yuan and 2120 yuan per ton, respectively. This significant price increase would significantly increase the cost of oil use and impact the smooth operation of related industries. "In order to alleviate these adverse effects and reduce the burden on downstream users, the government has implemented temporary price control measures for refined oil products," Lu Zhichen stated. The actual increase in gasoline and diesel prices is 1160 yuan and 1115 yuan per ton, which is 1045 yuan and 1005 yuan lower than what it should have been, equivalent to a decrease of around 0.85 yuan per liter on average nationwide. "In recent years, refined oil prices have always been adjusted according to the current mechanism. This is the first adjustment since the implementation of the current mechanism in 2013. This move by the government fully demonstrates the institutional advantages of our country and is a timely and effective measure taken to deal with the significant increase in international oil prices, playing an important role in ensuring the stable operation of the domestic economy," said Dong Xiucheng, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics.