Oil prices are rising, with the Brent crude benchmark exceeding $90 per barrel on Friday for the first time since 2024. However, Fuels and Energy e.V. Notes that it is not the price of crude oil, but rather the prices of refined fuel products like gasoline and diesel – which are also traded on stock exchanges – that primarily influence the prices at the pump.
Fuel Costs Lower in Eastern and Southeastern Europe
According to the ADAC, fuel prices in Eastern and Southeastern Europe are almost always lower than in Germany. This assessment is based on data from the European Commission, which monitors prices across member states weekly through the Weekly Oil Bulletin. Countries like Luxembourg, Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic have different tax and levy policies on fuels, and also begin price increases from a lower base level than Germany.
This situation has spurred increased “fuel tourism.” Long queues have formed at gas stations in the Polish border region and the Czech Republic, with some drivers filling canisters with fuel, according to the Deutsche Presse-Agentur. Diesel, gasoline, and premium fuel are also currently less expensive in Belgium, Austria, and Luxembourg.
Customs Controls at the Border
Customs officials in Brandenburg have begun increased controls at the border. The import of fuel from abroad is duty-free only if it is for personal use and transported in the vehicle’s tank. Canisters up to 20 liters are also duty-free if the fuel is suitable for the vehicle’s engine.
Debate Over Price Brake
The sharp price increases since the outbreak of conflict have led to calls for a reintroduction of a fuel price cap. Federal Economics Minister Reiche (CDU) and economists have already spoken out against this, as have the leading associations of the German economy – BDA, BDI, IHK, and ZDH. The climate protection organization Germanwatch and the Verkehrsclub Deutschland (VCD) also expressed criticism. The Federal Cartel Office dampened hopes for a quick solution to the price increases, stating there is no mechanism to prevent geopolitically driven price increases “at the push of a button,” according to its head, Mundt. However, the office continues to monitor fuel price developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is driving up fuel prices?
The price of Brent crude oil has risen, exceeding $90 per barrel. However, the price of refined fuel products, traded on stock exchanges, is what most directly impacts prices at the pump.
Where can drivers find cheaper fuel?
Fuel prices are generally lower in Eastern and Southeastern Europe, including countries like Luxembourg, Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
Are there restrictions on bringing fuel across the border?
Fuel imported for personal use in a vehicle’s tank is duty-free. Canisters up to 20 liters are also permitted, provided the fuel is compatible with the vehicle’s engine.
As fuel prices continue to fluctuate in response to international events, will consumers adjust their driving habits or seek alternative transportation options?
