The Polish government will analyze potential excessive fuel exports and may implement restrictions, as it moves to control prices and ensure supply.
Government to Monitor Fuel Exports
The Polish government will analyze potential excessive fuel exports from Poland and has tools to counteract such a situation, Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka announced on Friday.
Motyka stated that if reports from wholesalers and retailers indicate fuel shortages, the government is prepared to intervene, potentially through regulations or legislation, or by utilizing reserve mechanisms.
Potential Export Restrictions and Reserves
The government possesses mechanisms to address situations of excessive fuel tourism locally, including reserves and limits on export volumes. Other countries have already taken similar steps.
Motyka emphasized the need for a responsible approach, warning that immediate implementation of export limits could trigger local panic. The government is carefully analyzing this possibility.
Price Controls and VAT Reduction
Any potential limits on fuel exports will be considered in relation to current fuel reserves, which are currently at average or high levels.
A maximum retail price for fuel, as part of a package to limit price increases, will be announced by the Minister in the Polish Monitor.
Legislative Approvals and Implementation Timeline
The Sejm (Polish Parliament) passed amendments to introduce official maximum prices for gasoline and diesel, and a law enabling the Minister of Finance to reduce fuel excise duties. The government also plans to lower the VAT rate on fuels from 23% to 8%.
These measures are planned to take effect before Easter and remain in place until the end of June. The bills will now proceed to the Senate for a vote, with a swift transfer to the President for signature anticipated.
Price Calculation Methodology
The maximum fuel price will be calculated based on a formula including the average wholesale price of fuels on the domestic market, plus excise duty, fuel fee, a sales margin of 0.30 złoty per liter, and VAT.
The maximum price will be announced by the Minister of Energy and will take effect the day after publication. In the event of an announcement before non-working days, the rate will apply from the next working day.
