The Romanian government changes strategy: a voluntary mechanism to reduce diesel prices by 50 bani, with the involvement of gas stations, instead of reducing the excise duty.

The Romanian government is considering a temporary suspension of the excise duty on diesel, proposing a voluntary contribution mechanism that would reduce the price by 50 bani per liter. According to government sources cited by G4Media, the state would cover 0.25 bani per liter, while gas stations would contribute the same amount.

This scheme will apply especially to diesel, where prices have increased significantly, Romania being a net importer. If the price of diesel exceeds 10 lei again, the government will consider reducing the excise duty. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan announced last week that measures are being analyzed to stop the rise in fuel prices, mentioning that a reduction in VAT could attract infringement proceedings from the European Commission. Bolojan also emphasized the importance of avoiding supply crises, referring to Slovenia's experience, where price capping led to a diesel shortage.