Slovenia caps fuel sales, becomes first EU state to introduce rationing

Slovenia has become the first European Union member state to introduce fuel rationing, moving to contain supply disruptions triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory actions involving its allies in the Gulf.

Across Europe, fuel prices have surged sharply. In Slovenia, comparatively lower, regulated prices have drawn drivers from neighbouring countries, particularly Austria, fuelling a wave of so-called “fuel tourism”.

According to a BBC report, new measures will cap daily fuel purchases for private motorists in Slovenia at 50 litres. Businesses and farmers will be allowed a higher quota of up to 200 litres.

Some fuel retailers had already taken independent steps. Hungary’s MOL, which operates petrol stations across the region, previously imposed a 30-litre limit.

Prime Minister Robert Golob said over the weekend that there was no immediate risk of shortages. “I can assure you that Slovenia has sufficient fuel supplies, that storage facilities are full, and that there will be no fuel shortage,” he said.

Under the government’s new framework, enforcement of nationwide restrictions will be delegated to petrol stations. Staff will be responsible for ensuring customers do not exceed permitted purchase limits or stockpile fuel.

Authorities are also encouraging fuel retailers to impose stricter limits on foreign drivers.

In Austria, the price of Euro-super 95 petrol is nearing €1.80 per litre, while diesel is approaching €2.00. In Slovenia, prices are currently capped at €1.47 and €1.53 respectively, although increases are expected later today (March 24).

Near the Austrian border in the northern Slovenian town of Šentilj, a truck driver told local media he wondered whether his country was “at war” after arriving at a petrol station that had run completely dry.

“I’ve never experienced anything like this before,” he said, with regional reports suggesting his confusion is widely shared.

For some Austrian motorists, the price gap is sufficient to justify crossing the border.

Herbert Kickl, leader of the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), has seized on the situation for political messaging, sharing images of queues of Austrian-registered vehicles waiting to refuel at a Slovenian petrol station.

“Isn’t it sad that we live in a country where many people feel compelled to go abroad just to make life more affordable?” Kickl said.

Among Slovenians, reactions are mixed. Some view foreign visitors as a nuisance, blaming them for queues and local shortages. Others take a more pragmatic stance, noting that many “fuel tourists” spend time in local restaurants and shops, contributing to the economy.

For now, adapting to the situation appears to be the most viable course. As long as price disparities persist, cross-border fuel traffic is likely to continue.