Highway Discount Gas Stations Should Only Pass Savings to Consumers, Lawmaker Says

Rep. Mo Gyeong-jong of the Democratic Party criticized the declining price competitiveness of discount gas stations operated by the Korea Expressway Corporation, suggesting that the system should be improved to reduce rental fees in line with actual consumer prices.

During a national audit of the Korea Expressway Corporation on October 8, Rep. Mo stated, "The purpose of discount gas stations is to allow consumers to fill up at lower prices. The expressway corporation promised to sell at the lowest prices nationwide, but we need to examine the actual situation."

He pointed out that none of the so-called 'good gas stations' selected by the government during this year's rise in oil prices included any discount gas stations on highways. "Despite being called discount gas stations, not a single one has been selected as a good gas station on the highway," he said, raising questions about their price competitiveness.

In response to comments from Korea Expressway Corporation CEO Yoo Jeong-hoon regarding price fluctuations due to international circumstances and existing contract structures, Rep. Mo argued, "Even in such situations, discount gas stations, which receive support and hold operating rights, should supply fuel to consumers at lower prices. If rental fees are reduced but do not lead to actual price reductions, that is a problem."

Rep. Mo also mentioned that the price competitiveness of highway discount gas stations has fallen compared to other discount gas stations and those operated by the four major oil companies. He cited instances during the Chuseok holiday when some gas stations reduced prices by nearly 100 won in just one day, emphasizing the need for system improvements to encourage consistent price reductions.

He proposed changing the system to deduct rental fees only to the extent that benefits are passed on to consumers, stating, "It is right to provide benefits equivalent to the price reductions." In response, CEO Yoo said he would review the related matters.

* This article has been translated by AI.