S. KOREA DOMESTIC DIESEL PRICES SPARK PROBE

Abstract

The national petroleum association "explains the difference between the two figures by pointing out when refiners export oil, they become eligible for a refund of the 3% customs tax and for the duties they paid to import crude oil, or 16 won per liter," according to the report.

"The difference was even greater last year. According to a filing refiners sent to the financial authorities in 2008, SK Energy's unit price for locally-sold gasoline was 715.41 won per liter, while exports cost 609.48 won. Other refiners charged 14 to 54 won per liter more for diesel that was sold domestically."