Petroleum shortage has upset the rhythm of life in Ulaanbaatar.  Many planning to spend the weekend away from the city were frustrated on Friday evening to find petrol stations either closed or not selling AI-92. AI-95 has also not been freely available for several days.

Importing companies state that AI-92 petroleum is sold to those with tokens and cards, but few individuals have either. Their use is more common with business companies. Also, Petrovis has stopped issuing new cards. This situation is likely to continue until July 10, with the authorities believed to have instructed importers to hoard AI-92 for the time and release the stock during Naadam, so that the festival days are celebrated normally. Until then, people will be compelled to buy AI-80 petroleum which has a higher octane rate.

It was seen on Sunday that some petrol stations displayed AI-92 price as MNT1,500 per liter but were actually charging MNT2,000. Some private taxi drivers have raised their rates to MNT1,000 per km.