Spain fuel prices shift as new hydrocarbon tax rates take effect

New hydrocarbon tax rates in Spain, effective as of September 1, 2026, have led to a significant divergence in fuel prices. Diesel prices have decreased by 20 cents per liter, while gasoline prices have seen an increase of 5 cents per liter. This shift marks the first time since March that diesel has become cheaper than gasoline in terms of effective taxation.

The Confederation of Service Station Companies (CEEES) has stated that service stations are widely applying the new rates. However, they noted that the full reduction in pump prices may occur gradually as stations replenish stocks purchased under the previous tax rates. On the first day of implementation, the average price for Diesel A in the peninsula and Balearic Islands was approximately 1.804 euros per liter, dropping further to 1.781 euros by September 2.

The government's measure aims to provide cost relief to the professional transport sector during a period of increased mobility. For an average 60-liter tank, the tax adjustment represents a savings of roughly 12 euros for diesel users.