EU methane rule could jeopardise oil imports and lift gasoline prices

From 1 January 2027, the European Union’s methane regulation will allow oil and gas imports only from countries whose measurement and control systems match EU standards. According to a Wood Mackenzie study, 43 % of Europe’s gas imports and 87 % of its crude imports in 2025 would fail to meet the new criteria. In Spain, the impact is projected to be even larger, with only about 3 % of the country’s 2025 crude imports complying.

Industry groups, including the Spanish Fuel Industry Association (ACIE), warn that the rule could restrict supply diversification, create artificial shortages, and trigger a substantial rise in raw‑material costs that would cascade to higher gasoline and diesel prices. They argue the regulation may also undermine Europe’s energy security and clash with climate goals, and they are urging EU energy ministers to adjust the requirements to protect competitiveness and supply resilience.