The increase in utility tariffs in Belarus was preceded by wage growth - Ministry of Economy

February 10, Minsk /BelTA correspondent/. An increase in utility tariffs in Belarus was preceded by wage growth. This was stated today to journalists by Igor Fomin, Director of the Price Policy Department of the Ministry of Economy of Belarus, BelTA reports. Utility tariffs in Belarus were not increased during 2010. The last increase in utility tariffs was on January 1, 2009. "The current tariff increase was preceded by an accelerated growth in wages, pensions, and benefits," the department director noted. He added that the tariff increase was carried out within the limits set by the President. Igor Fomin also noted that currently, the share of expenses for utility services accounts for up to 10% of a family's total expenses. At the same time, in European Union countries, utility expenses account for approximately one-third of such expenses. However, the department director acknowledged that the level of public income in Belarus and EU countries is incomparable. "But if we compare the growth rate of income with the latest tariff increase, it allows citizens to still have an increase in real income in the final balance," said the representative of the Ministry of Economy. As for further prospects for changes in utility tariffs, everything will depend on the economic situation. "If there is an increase, it will be supported by an increase in public income," Igor Fomin emphasized. -0-