ZAGREB, March 9 (Xinhua) -- The Croatian government on Monday introduced a two-week cap on motor fuel prices, according to an announcement on its official X account.
Under the new regulation, which takes effect on Tuesday, the price of regular petrol will increase by 0.04 euros to 1.50 euros per liter, while diesel will rise by 0.07 euros to 1.55 euros per liter. The capped prices will remain in effect until March 23.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said the government's priorities remain ensuring a stable energy supply and maintaining affordability for both citizens and businesses.
The measures come as global oil prices surge amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and potential disruptions to exports through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint through which around 20 percent of global oil shipments pass.
Croatia has faced persistent inflationary pressures in recent years. After peaking in 2022 during the energy crisis triggered by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, consumer price growth has remained among the highest in the eurozone.
As a result, the government has repeatedly introduced price caps and tax adjustments to help mitigate the rising cost of living.
Previously, authorities had regulated fuel prices for nearly three years, before briefly lifting the measures in July 2025. ■
