Slovenia has taken the lead among EU countries by introducing fuel rationing as a result of the recent US-Iran conflict developments. The region witnessed US-Israeli strikes and subsequent Iranian retaliations in the Gulf, a critical hub for global energy markets.
These events triggered a spike in fuel prices globally, leading to increased market volatility. Slovenia experienced a phenomenon known as “fuel tourism,” where drivers from neighboring countries, particularly Austria, crossed the border to benefit from lower fuel prices regulated in Slovenia, as reported by the Express.
Under the new regulations in Slovenia, private drivers are now restricted to purchasing a maximum of 50 liters of fuel per day. In contrast, businesses and farmers are allowed a daily purchase limit of up to 200 liters.
Prime Minister Robert Golob of Slovenia reassured the public over the weekend, stating that the country has an adequate fuel supply with full warehouses, ensuring no fuel shortages will occur.
The enforcement of these measures is anticipated to be carried out by petrol stations themselves, with staff responsible for monitoring and enforcing the daily fuel limits for customers. Additionally, fuel retailers are urged to implement stricter restrictions on foreign drivers.
These restrictions align with the actions taken by some fuel retailers in neighboring countries. For instance, Hungary’s MOL has already set a daily purchase limit of 30 liters per customer.
While Austria experiences higher fuel prices, with Euro-super 95 petrol reaching €1.80 and diesel nearing the €2 mark, Slovenia maintains lower prices at €1.47 for petrol and €1.53 for diesel. However, an increase in prices is expected on March 24.
At the northern border of Slovenia with Austria, a lorry driver in Sentilj expressed concerns about potential fuel shortages, reflecting widespread uncertainty among the population. Many Austrian motorists are considering cross-border trips to Slovenia for cheaper fuel, leading to long queues at filling stations.
Austrian politician Herbert Kickl, a member of the far-right Freedom Party, has been using his refueling trips as a form of political messaging, highlighting the necessity for Austrians to seek lower-priced fuel abroad.
While some Slovenians view the influx of foreign drivers as disruptive, causing queues and shortages for locals, others see an economic benefit as “fuel tourists” often spend money at local businesses during their visits.
