Slovakia scraps two-tier fuel pricing after EU criticism

Slovakia has abolished its system of dual pricing for diesel fuel, eliminating different tariffs for domestic consumers and foreign drivers, with the changes taking effect immediately, as per foreign media.

The government has also lifted restrictions on refuelling fuel into canisters. Previously, drivers were limited to purchasing no more than 10 litres in a canister in addition to filling a full tank, but that rule has now been removed.

The dual pricing mechanism had drawn criticism from the European Commission, particularly over the higher prices imposed on foreign drivers. According to Slovakia’s Minister of Economy Denisa Saková, the cancellation of the system removes the basis for any further proceedings by Brussels against the country.

At the same time, the Slovak government does not intend to reduce fuel taxes, despite pressure from opposition parties. Critics have pointed out that fuel prices in Slovakia remain higher than in neighbouring Poland and the Czech Republic.

The dual pricing policy for diesel fuel was introduced following the outbreak of the war in the Middle East. Authorities justified the measure as a way to curb so-called “fuel tourism,” referring to the practice of foreign drivers crossing into Slovakia to take advantage of lower fuel prices. However, the policy later faced criticism from the European Union and has now been scrapped.

By Tamilla Hasanova