Romania adjusts diesel subsidies amid fuel price volatility

The Romanian government has approved modifications to the state aid scheme for compensating diesel price increases. Under the new rules, the amount returned to transporters will vary based on the level of national excise duty reduction. Specifically, if the excise duty is reduced by 15%, the aid will be 71 bani/liter; at a 20% reduction, it will be 57 bani/liter; and at a 25% reduction, it will be 43 bani/liter. This replaces the previous flat rate of 85 bani/liter to align with Law no. 162/2026 and ensure compliance with European Union minimum taxation directives.

Fuel prices at the pump have shown significant volatility. While a 25% reduction in excise duty briefly lowered diesel prices below the 10 lei/liter threshold, prices quickly rose again due to increasing international oil quotations and tensions in the Gulf region. Major retailers like Rompetrol and MOL reported diesel price increases of 11 to 15 bani per liter following the brief dip.

Analysts note that these fluctuations impact the entire supply chain, potentially leading to higher costs for consumer goods, such as dairy products, due to increased logistics expenses. Current market trends show gasoline prices averaging around 9.52 lei/liter, while diesel remains near the 10 lei/liter mark.