BRUSSELS, March 24 (Reuters) - The decision by Slovakia's government this month to approve a resolution allowing service stations to limit diesel sales, and also set higher prices for cars with
EU: Slovakia's Diesel Sales Limits and Foreign Vehicle Pricing Illegal Under EU Law
Slovakia's Diesel Sales Restrictions and EU Law
Commission's Response to Slovakia's Measures
BRUSSELS, March 24 (Reuters) - The decision by Slovakia's government this month to approve a resolution allowing service stations to limit diesel sales, and also set higher prices for cars with foreign plates, go against European Union law, said a Commission spokesperson on Tuesday.
Details of the Slovak Government's Actions
"We take note that the Slovak government has adopted a measure imposing, a 30 day restriction on diesel refuelling in Slovakia as well as introducing differentiated pricing for domestic and foreign vehicles. And that includes higher prices for vehicles with foreign licence plates," said the spokesperson at a news conference.
EU Commission's Criticism and Legal Stance
"We consider that this measure is highly discriminatory and against EU Law and while we understand the need to support citizens, and at this time in particular, measures must not discriminate between nationality, nor should they undermine the integrity of our single market, we will take the appropriate legal action to ensure compliance with this," added the spokesperson.
Background and Context of Slovakia's Measures
Reasons Behind the Diesel Sales Limits
Slovakia has sought to secure supplies as global energy prices have surged due to the Iran war, and as the country's Russian crude deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline have been interrupted due to damage to the line in Ukraine.
Specifics of the New Resolution
Diesel Sales and Export Restrictions
Under Slovakia's new resolution, fuel pumps can limit diesel sales to a full tank and up to 10 additional litres.
Pricing for Foreign-Registered Vehicles
Exports will also be limited, and prices of diesel for foreign-registered cars can be set differently, based on the average of prices in neighbouring Czech Republic, Austria and Poland.
Duration and Scope of Measures
The measures will be valid for 30 days and do not concern gasoline.
(Reporting by Inti Landauro;Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta)
