Slovakia’s emergency fuel restrictions have drawn sharp criticism from the European Commission (EC), which argues that the measures breach single market rules.
The Slovak government introduced the controls in response to tightening fuel supplies and rising energy costs, linked to geopolitical tensions involving Iran and disruptions to Russian crude deliveries via the Druzhba pipeline.
Under the resolution, which is initially valid for 30 days, petrol stations are permitted to limit diesel sales to a full tank plus an additional ten litres. The measures also allow for higher diesel prices for vehicles with foreign number plates, based on average fuel prices in neighbouring countries such as Austria, Czech Republic and Poland. Diesel exports have also been restricted.
Prime Minister Robert Fico has defended the policy, stating that it is necessary to stabilise domestic supply and curb what he describes as fuel tourism. Reports of filling stations in northern Slovakia running out of diesel have increased pressure on the government, as lower domestic prices have attracted motorists from across the Polish border. Fico described the measures as strict but essential under current conditions.
However, the Commission has warned that the dual pricing system is discriminatory and incompatible with European Union (EU) law. A spokesperson emphasised that member states must not introduce measures that differentiate on the basis of nationality or undermine the integrity of the single market. Brussels has indicated it is prepared to pursue legal action if required.
The restrictions come amid broader energy challenges across Europe, including sustained price increases and repeated interruptions to Slovakia’s supply of Russian oil. These pressures led Bratislava to declare an oil emergency and draw on strategic reserves to keep refineries operating. The government maintains that the controls are necessary to prevent panic buying and protect national stock levels.
While the measures do not apply to petrol and include exemptions for emergency services and critical infrastructure, uncertainty remains over whether they will be extended beyond the initial 30 day period. Slovakia now faces the challenge of balancing domestic energy security with mounting pressure from the EU to comply with single market rules.
Read our previous report on the issue at: https://dealerfloor.co.za/industry-news/diesel-rationing-border-demand-and-risk-in-slovakia
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