Kosovo adopts measures on oil prices

2026-03-04 15:34:05, Kosova & Bota CNA

Kosovo imposed safeguard measures on fuel prices on Wednesday, following a sudden increase in fuel prices in the country as a result of the conflict in the Middle East.

The Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade (MINT) Mimoza Kusari announced on Facebook that she signed the decision, according to which the maximum profits allowed for wholesale and retail sales are set.

According to the decision, the maximum trade margin allowed for wholesale sales will be up to 2 cents per liter, while for retail sales it will be up to 12 cents per liter.

Fuel prices in Kosovo, within just 24 hours, have increased by at least 14 cents.

Kusari said her decision was "necessary for consumer protection and guaranteeing fair and honest competition in the local market."

The decision comes after continuous surveillance of the oil market, analysis of daily records by Kosovo Customs and reports from the Central Inspectorate for Market Surveillance, which confirmed that price increases from imports were immediately reflected in sales prices.

Through this measure, it is intended to maintain market stability, prevent price abuses and ensure effective protection for consumers.

The increases in oil prices came days after the United States and Israel launched a military operation in Iran, and Tehran responded with attacks on Israel and other US allies in the region.

Following these tensions, the price of Brent oil, which is the global standard, rose by up to 10 percent on March 1 and analysts expect further increases.

Uncertainty about supply disruptions increased especially after the suspension of part of shipments through the Strait of Hormuz .

This strait, through which over a fifth of global daily oil supplies pass, serves as an export artery for countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Iraq.

Any risk of blockage or restriction of circulation immediately translates into increased insurance and transportation costs and, consequently, higher prices on world markets.

Kosovo depends on the import of oil derivatives as it does not have its own refinery.

Last year alone, the country imported over 478 million euros of oil and more than 51 million euros of gasoline.

After every global crisis, economic operators in Kosovo have increased fuel prices even for quantities purchased earlier at lower prices.

To prevent price abuses, former Kosovo Customs Director Naim Huruglica told Radio Free Europe on March 3 that authorities should consider extending safeguard measures to guarantee fair competition and consumer protection in times of crisis.

A similar decision was made on December 16, 2025 by then-Minister Rozeta Hajdari, which was in effect for only 30 days.

Kusari said that the March 4 decision enters into force one day after publication in the Official Gazette, but did not indicate how long it will last.

"Any violation or non-implementation of this decision will be dealt with according to the legislation in force," she said./REL