Hungary faces potential fuel shortages as independent stations warn of price‑protected sales

The Independent Gas Station Association (FBSZ) warned that within the next two to three weeks Hungary could experience nationwide fuel supply problems if stations are required to sell diesel and gasoline at a protected price that leaves no profit margin. The association said retailers may have to limit sales or close stations once their own stocks run out, risking a crisis similar to the 2022 gasoline shortage.

Mol, the country's major fuel supplier, said its overall fuel supply remains stable, with sufficient stocks of both diesel and gasoline. However, the strategic state‑held diesel reserve allocated to Mol partners is expected to be exhausted by midnight on Wednesday, after which stations will receive fuel at the regulated price from Thursday onward. This regulatory price, which retailers must also apply, creates the margin‑less situation cited by the independent stations.

FBSZ highlighted additional pressures such as an extra‑profit tax, the absence of promised subsidies, and the sector's contribution of roughly 400 billion HUF in annual tax revenue, urging swift regulatory adjustments to protect supply security and fair market competition.