France temporarily lifts fuel transport restrictions to prevent supply disruptions

The government of France has announced a temporary easing of restrictions on the movement of tanker trucks transporting petroleum products, aiming to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies to service stations.

The decision comes amid concerns over potential supply disruptions linked to global energy market instability and ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Caliber.Az reports via French media. 

Authorities said the measure reflects the “exceptional importance” of maintaining steady hydrocarbon deliveries across the country. Under the decree, restrictions on trucks weighing more than 7.5 tons that carry petroleum products will be lifted until May 11, 2026. The exemption applies to weekends, public holidays, and adjacent periods, when such vehicles are typically subject to traffic bans on certain roads and highways.

The temporary relaxation also allows empty tanker trucks to return during these restricted periods, facilitating smoother logistics and turnaround times.

Under normal conditions, France imposes limits on heavy vehicle movement during specific hours, including daytime and nighttime restrictions on weekends, to ease congestion and improve road safety.

According to the French Ministry of Economy, around 13% of petrol stations experience temporary fuel shortages, a figure that can rise to as much as 20% following major holiday periods. Officials say the latest move is intended to stabilise supply chains and reduce the risk of widespread fuel shortages.

By Sabina Mammadli