1.   Although new companies would be allowed to enter the market, the ministry would continue to set domestic gasoline prices for the time being.

2.   Arrieta said that, contrary to local newspaper reports, a domestic gasoline hike has not been decided on and will not be discussed with the IMF.

3.   According to press reports this weekend, the IMF is demanding the government increase domestic gasoline prices as one of the conditions for an agreement.

4.   Caldera also raised domestic gasoline prices sixfold and promised to raise taxes as part of an overall economic package called the Agenda Venezuela.

5.   Domestic gasoline is heavily subsidized by the government.

6.   Domestic gasoline was formerly heavily subsidized by the government.

7.   Last month, government officials said talks with the IMF were stalled on the issue of raising domestic gasoline prices.

8.   Last month, government officials said talks with the IMF were stalled over the issue of raising domestic gasoline prices.

9.   No disturbances or riots were reported during the strike, called to protest an increase in domestic gasoline prices and demand higher wages.

10.   President Rafael Caldera increased domestic gasoline prices six-fold in April, resulting in a series of bus fare increases.