Fuel Station Prices: Ethanol Becomes Advantageous Again in Mato Grosso do Sul

During the week of March 8-14, Brazil's fuel prices showed significant movements. Ethanol prices increased in 21 states and the Federal District, while gasoline prices rose in 26 federal units. Notably, the consumption of biofuel ethanol was economically advantageous only in Mato Grosso do Sul. Specifically, the ex-factory prices of hydrous ethanol increased in Mato Grosso do Sul and São Paulo, while decreasing in Goiás. This price survey by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) covered 359 Brazilian cities, 24 fewer than in the previous period. Between March 8 and 14, both ethanol and gasoline prices saw an increase. The biofuel was traded at an average of R$4.64 per liter, a 0.7% rise from the previous R$4.61/L. Meanwhile, the fossil fuel was sold at R$6.46/L, marking a weekly increase of 2.5% and its second consecutive rise. Despite the increase in gasoline prices, ethanol's value remained above the range generally considered economically favorable for consumers. According to the ANP, the ratio between the price of biofuel and gasoline was 71.8%, a reduction compared to 73.2% from the previous week. The figures released by the ANP consider not only prices observed at fuel stations but also sales volumes, meaning larger consumer markets have greater representation in the results. Considering state averages, renewable ethanol once again became advantageous in Mato Grosso do Sul, with a ratio of 68.9%. Furthermore, from March 9 to 13, hydrous ethanol was sold by São Paulo mills at R$2.943 per liter.