EU hits Slovakia for double fuel prices: It's highly discriminatory

European Commission spokeswoman Siobhan McGarry said on Tuesday that EU countries can take actions to support their citizens, such as reducing excise duty on fuel, but they should not discriminate against people. In this way, she commented on the higher fuel prices for foreigners introduced in Slovakia.

The Slovak government adopted a law that introduced double prices for diesel fuel at gas stations in Slovakia for 30 days – higher rates for foreigners or people from outside Slovakia, and lower rates for citizens of the country.

– We consider this measure to be highly discriminatory and contrary to EU law. We certainly understand the need to support citizens at this time, but these measures should not discriminate on the basis of nationality or, of course, undermine the integrity of the internal market. The Commission will therefore take appropriate legal action to ensure compliance with the law when we find evidence of discrimination against citizens, as is clearly the case here. That's why last week we sent a letter to the Slovak authorities asking for a response – replied the spokeswoman at a press conference in Brussels.

She added that member states can take measures to support their citizens, but they should not be “discriminatory”.

One example we have clearly given is the possibility for Member States to reduce fuel excise duty. Some Member States have already done this. The Commission, of course, supports all actions that benefit all EU citizens, she added.

There is also a refueling limit in Slovakia – you can fill the car's tank and a 10-liter canister.

From Brussels Łukasz Osiński (PAP)

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