Residents of Belarus will face a number of changes with the start of summer

The National Bank of Belarus will lower the refinancing rate from 9.75% to 9.25% effective 1 June. A new 200-ruble banknote will also be introduced into circulation. The banknote's release is part of a planned update to the design and security features of banknotes issued in 2009 and the replacement of worn and damaged banknotes. Also, starting 1 June the country will begin the second phase of utility rate increases. The changes will primarily affect heating and hot water. On average, the bill will increase by Br.12, 2.6 of which will be for heating and Br0.53 for hot water.