Poland's energy market regulator URE believes that liberalization of wholesale gas market is possible as of January 1, 2013, URE President Marek Woszczyk told PAP Polish news agency.

"The liberalization of wholesale market is the most likely and probable as of January 1, 2013," Woszczyk said. "Of course, if sufficient gas volumes are in trade."

"Then, gradually, gas prices for industry in particular segments should be gradually freed," the official added.

URE President sees no formal obstacles in launching the gas exchange.
"Currently there are no formal obstacles for launching gas exchange," Woszczyk said, referring to the fact that financial market regulator KNF approved power and commodity exchange TGE's statutes.

Previously URE said it would like to free gas market for industrial recipients as of January 2013, while market liberalization for households could take place beyond 2015.