Croatian government announces new measures as it caps fuel prices and extends energy support

ZAGREB, 23 March 2026 – The Croatian government has unveiled a new package of measures aimed at protecting citizens and businesses from rising energy costs triggered by instability in global markets.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković announced the measures during a government session on Monday, describing them as part of the country’s 10th economic support package since 2020.

The move comes as energy prices surge worldwide amid escalating tensions and conflict in the Middle East, which analysts warn could significantly disrupt global oil supplies.

According to the prime minister, the new package is designed to soften the economic impact of the latest geopolitical crisis.

“The goal is to preserve jobs and economic activity while easing pressure from rising prices,” Plenković said.

Officials pointed to the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global energy supplies.

Around 30% of global oil trade passes through the strait, along with roughly 20–25% of global LNG supplies and significant volumes of oil gas and helium. Any disruption to this route could have major consequences for global energy markets.

Analysts have described the recent surge in oil prices as “aggressive and rapid”, raising concerns across Europe about supply security and economic stability.

New Fuel Prices

The government has decided to intervene by reducing part of the fuel excise duty and limiting distributor margins in order to soften price increases.

From Tuesday, the maximum prices will be:

• Petrol (Eurosuper): €1.62 per litre (currently €1.50; without government intervention it would reach €1.71)

• Diesel (Eurodiesel): €1.73 per litre (currently €1.55; without intervention €1.86)

• Blue diesel used mainly in agriculture and fishing: €1.19 per litre (without measures €1.23)

Fuel price controls will apply to all petrol stations except those located on motorways, where prices will remain deregulated.

The prime minister said the government could not fully prevent price increases but could limit their impact.

Gas and LPG Prices

Prices of liquefied petroleum gas will also rise but remain capped below market levels due to government intervention.

• LPG in tanks will increase from €1.70 to €1.99 per kilogram (without measures €2.07)

• LPG in cylinders will increase from €2.40 to €2.57 per kilogram (without measures €2.77)

Meanwhile, the government confirmed that electricity prices will remain unchanged for the next six months, while gas prices will remain fixed until 30 September.

Additional support measures were also announced.

A programme aimed at tackling energy poverty will be extended until 30 September. Vulnerable households will continue to receive €70 per month in energy assistance.

Support will also be provided to key sectors affected by rising fuel costs:

• €20 million allocated to farmers to help with spring planting and sowing

• €8 million earmarked for the fishing sector

• Financial support for student centres will continue in order to prevent increases in student meal prices.

Plenković stressed that the government’s priority is to ensure energy supply security while protecting the economy from external shocks.

Croatia, he said, will continue monitoring developments in global energy markets closely and adjust measures if necessary.

“With extensive experience in crisis management, our aim is to ensure stability, safeguard jobs and maintain economic activity despite global uncertainties,” the prime minister concluded.