March 17 (Reuters) - Slovakia is considering regulation to set higher diesel prices at the fuel pumps for foreign drivers or limiting their refuelling, Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Tuesday, as
Slovakia Eyes Raising Diesel Prices for Foreigners to Curb Border Fuel Tourism
Slovakia Considers Measures to Address Fuel Tourism and Price Disparities
Government's Response to Fuel Tourism
March 17 (Reuters) - Slovakia is considering regulation to set higher diesel prices at the fuel pumps for foreign drivers or limiting their refuelling, Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Tuesday, as the government looks to protect against fuel tourism.
Impact of Cross-Border Diesel Price Differences
Reports from Slovnaft and MOL Group
Fico said representatives from refiner Slovnaft, part of Hungary's oil and gas group MOL, had informed the government that in some northern districts next to Poland, cheaper diesel prices on the Slovak side of the border had led to a rise in purchases.
Consequences for Local Gas Stations
In some cases, Fico said, "gas stations literally dried up."
Regional and Global Context
Global Concerns Over Fuel Prices
Governments around the world fear a surge in fuel prices triggered by the Iran war.
Approaches in Neighboring Countries
Hungary has capped fuel prices, while Poland's main refiner Orlen has cut its margins to tame the impact on consumers. Slovakia has so far avoided any measures, relying on self-regulation by sellers, which can also limit volumes.
Slovakia's Pricing Strategy
Fico said the government wanted prices comparable to most neighbouring countries like Poland, and cheaper than in Austria.
(Reporting by Jason Hovet; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
