The European Commission on Tuesday criticized Slovakia’s new regulations imposing higher diesel prices and purchase limits for vehicles with foreign license plates.
European Commission Challenges Slovakian Diesel Restrictions
The European Commission has stated that restrictions on diesel sales implemented by the Slovakian government, including increased prices for vehicles registered abroad, violate European Union regulations. The new rules took effect on Monday.
According to European Commission spokesperson Ricardo Cardoso, the measures include a 30-day limit on diesel purchases in Slovakia and differentiated pricing for domestic and foreign vehicles, with higher prices for those with foreign license plates.
Discriminatory Measures, EU Claims
The Commission considers the measures to be highly discriminatory and contrary to EU law. While acknowledging the need to support citizens, the Commission asserts that such measures cannot discriminate based on nationality or undermine the integrity of the single market.
The Commission stated it will take appropriate legal steps to ensure compliance with EU regulations.
Slovakia’s Pricing and Purchase Limits
Since Monday, diesel prices for foreign drivers in Slovakia have been based on the average prices in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland, using EU data. A purchase limit is also in effect, allowing drivers to fill their vehicle’s tank and one 10-liter canister.
Duration of Restrictions
These restrictions are set to remain in place for 30 days and do not apply to gasoline.
