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Germany Moves to Curb Fuel Costs as Watchdog Backs Pump Rule and Reserves Are Tapped

Fuel prices remain elevated despite a partial reserve release, putting sustained pressure on households and businesses.

Overview

  • Berlin released part of its national oil reserves, and the ADAC reported the first slight daily dip since the Iran war began, though E10 still averaged €2.011 per liter and diesel €2.134—about 23 and 39 cents above pre-war levels.
  • The government plans an Austrian-style cap allowing petrol stations only one price increase per day, a measure endorsed by Monopolkommission chair Tomaso Duso as potentially stabilizing for consumers.
  • Implementation of the one-hike rule would require changes to competition rules, with experts and the ADAC cautioning that firms could preemptively raise prices earlier in the day.
  • The IEA is weighing a coordinated release of up to 400 million barrels to steady markets, with reports indicating Germany could contribute about 19.5 million barrels if the plan proceeds.
  • Companies report acute cost strain—transport operators note fuel is roughly a third of operating costs, farmers face pricier diesel and fertilizers, and chemical producers see input spikes—while Iran’s new leader vows continued pressure on the Strait of Hormuz.