Slovenia has imposed a temporary limit of 50 liters of fuel per vehicle per day, effective Sunday, in response to growing fuel shortages and cross-border purchases by motorists from neighboring countries.
The restrictions apply to gasoline and diesel purchases at Slovenian filling stations. Premier Robert Golob stated there is “enough fuel in Slovenia,” but acknowledged difficulties in transporting fuel to stations across the country. He indicated consideration of deploying the military to assist with distribution, according to RTL Nieuws.
The measure is a direct response to increased demand from Italian and Austrian drivers taking advantage of lower fuel prices in Slovenia. This influx has created significant queues at petrol stations, particularly along border regions. The government hopes the limit will ensure sufficient fuel supplies for Slovenian residents.
Businesses are subject to a separate daily limit of 200 liters. The implementation of the 50-liter limit for individual motorists raises questions about enforcement, which has not yet been clarified by authorities. Some stations, including those operated by the Hungarian oil and gas company MOL, had already proactively implemented their own limits of 30 liters for individuals and 200 liters for businesses prior to the government’s nationwide restriction.
The fuel price disparity is driven by the broader geopolitical context, with rising prices linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This has made cross-border fuel tourism economically attractive for drivers in countries with higher prices. The situation is occurring as Slovenia prepares for elections, adding a layer of political sensitivity to the issue.
The Sloveense government has not yet announced a timeframe for the lifting of the restrictions, and the long-term impact on border communities and local businesses remains uncertain.
