Germany is taking action to curb rising fuel prices
Germany’s Bundestag (Federal Parliament) has approved a new law aimed at controlling fuel price increases, as rising costs linked to tensions in Iran and the Gulf continue to impact motorists.
The proposed measure will restrict petrol stations to only one price increase per day, although operators will still be allowed to lower prices multiple times. The law is designed to prevent sudden and repeated price hikes throughout the day.
However, the legislation still requires approval from the Bundesrat (upper house), with a vote expected soon. If passed, it will apply nationwide across Deutschland (Germany).
Critics argue that the measure does not address the actual level of fuel prices, as it places no cap on how high prices can go. Instead, it only limits how frequently stations can raise them, leaving the overall cost burden largely unchanged.
The law targets what authorities describe as the “rocket and feather” phenomenon, where fuel prices rise quickly with oil costs but fall slowly when prices drop. Businesses violating the rule could face fines of up to €100,000.
Fuel prices have surged significantly in recent weeks. According to ADAC, diesel prices have reached over €2.28 per liter, while petrol stands at around €2.07 per liter—both sharply higher compared to less than €1.80 per liter just a month ago, before the escalation involving Iran.