Government introduces rationing measures amid rising demand, supply disruptions and regional price disparities tied to global tensions.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Slovenia has introduced fuel rationing measures, becoming the first European Union country to implement restrictions on gasoline purchases as energy market pressures intensify amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The government announced limits this week capping fuel purchases at 50 litres per individual and 200 litres per business per day, according to a report by RTV Slovenia. The move follows reports of fuel shortages at service stations across the country.
Prime Minister Robert Golob said national reserves remain sufficient, emphasizing that supply warehouses are fully stocked despite disruptions at retail locations.
Local reports indicate that logistical issues, increased demand and cross-border fuel purchases have contributed to shortages at some stations, including in the capital. Coverage from the newspaper Delo noted that certain stations have run out of fuel in recent days.
Additional strain has been reported in border regions, where stations near Croatia have also experienced shortages following anticipated price increases, as reported here.
To address distribution challenges, the government has prioritized fuel transport within the national rail system, ensuring that supply shipments receive expedited handling.
Sašo Berger, chief executive of Petrol Group, said the shortages were driven by a rapid surge in demand. In comments reported by RTV Slovenia, Berger described the situation as the result of an “extremely sudden increase in demand,” adding that conditions were expected to stabilize.
Petrol Group board member Drago Kavšek attributed the demand spike in part to Slovenia’s pricing system, which is based on a 14-day average of international fuel prices. This structure can temporarily make fuel significantly cheaper than in neighboring countries, encouraging cross-border purchases.
The measures come amid broader concerns over global energy supply disruptions linked to the conflict in Iran and continued constraints affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for a substantial share of global oil flows.
Industry leaders have warned that similar pressures could spread across Europe. Wael Sawan, chief executive of Shell, said governments may need to consider additional measures to manage fuel availability. In remarks reported by the Daily Telegraph, Sawan said, “We see South Asia first to get that brunt, that moves to South-East Asia, North-East Asia, and then more so into Europe as we get into April.”
He added that energy companies are working with governments to prepare for potential shortages. “So we are trying to work with governments to alert them to the levers they may need to pull – including demand-side measures, what they need to do around storage, what they need to do around purchasing stock and so on and so forth,” Sawan said.
The developments in Slovenia highlight growing strain on fuel markets as geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions continue to affect energy availability across multiple regions.
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