“During the past months, we have experienced a stunning increase in oil production and sale,” Rouhani said in a prime time televised speech.

“Oil and gas are very important and we will take important steps this year,” said the president.

He added that four phases of the giant South Pars will come on-stream this year, adding 100 mcm/d to the country’s production.

Rouhani said Iran would no longer face gas shortage this year, adding that the government would have no problem with the distribution of oil products.

The president also said the government had no option but to raise the prices of energy carriers in line with the subsidy reform law.

Rouhani said the 75-percent increase in the gasoline price was not so high.