Hungary abolishes state‑set fuel price as market reforms take effect

A law amendment enacted on Saturday removes the official fuel price in Hungary, ending the state‑set pricing for gasoline and diesel. The change is justified by an improvement in the international energy‑political situation, though the legislation leaves open the possibility of future state intervention if market conditions become disproportionately distorted.

Under the amendment, the minister responsible for trade policy may issue a decree to set an official price again, and may define detailed rules for its application. Non‑compliant fuel stations face fines ranging from 100,000 to 150 million forints and can be barred from operation for up to six months after repeated violations. The law also amends provisions on strategic petroleum reserves, allowing the minister to direct the use and allocation of released stocks to priority users.

The reform shifts fuel pricing to market mechanisms while retaining a legal safety valve for exceptional circumstances.