Slovenia has imposed restrictions on fuel purchases in response to rising demand driven by cross-border “fuel tourism”, which has led to shortages at some service stations across the country.
Under the new measures, drivers are limited in how much fuel they can purchase at one time, with authorities aiming to stabilise distribution and prevent localised shortages: individuals will be limited to 50 litres of petrol or diesel per day. Transport operators will have a higher limit of 200 litres. The restrictions follow a sharp increase in traffic from neighbouring countries, where fuel prices are higher.
Slovenia had maintained relatively low fuel prices since the renewed U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran began. Petrol prices had remained below €1.50 per litre until recently, but price caps were lifted on Friday, March 20th, causing prices to rise to €1.70 per litre at motorway service stations. Fuel retailers have introduced caps at some locations to manage demand more evenly.
Authorities say the situation is linked to alleged “fuel tourism,” where motorists travel across borders to take advantage of lower prices. The phenomenon has grown in recent weeks amid wider volatility in European energy markets.
Slovenian officials have said the measures are temporary and are intended to ensure stable supply while logistics and distribution systems adjust to the surge in demand.
