First diesel price cut since outbreak of Middle East conflict

The National Agency for Energy Regulation (ANRE) has set new maximum reference prices for standard main petroleum products, valid for March 31, 2026. This update marks the first decrease in the diesel price since the beginning of the crisis in the Middle East.

According to the published data, diesel will become cheaper by 0.17 lei, reaching a retail price of 31.93 lei per liter. The drop comes after a period of constant pressure on fuel prices generated by geopolitical instability in the oil‑producing region. In contrast, the price of 95 gasoline continues to register a slight increase.

For Tuesday, it has been set at 29.66 lei per liter, up by 0.13 lei than the previous quotation. The new reference tariffs enter into force at midnight and are mandatory for all filling stations on the territory of the Republic of Moldova. The prices reflect recent developments on international markets and are calculated in accordance with the current methodology for capping fuel prices.

Government measures to secure the petroleum market

In the context of the state of emergency (Parliament Decision No. 38/2026), the Government has approved a set of temporary measures aimed at ensuring continuity of diesel supply and protecting consumers:

Operational price adjustment: To avoid the risk of blocking imports, the authorities have allowed a faster alignment of diesel prices with external quotations. This measure is critical given that national diesel stocks have fallen to around seven days of consumption, reducing the market’s ability to cushion price shocks over longer periods. For gasoline, the pricing mechanism remains unchanged, as stocks are at a stable level.

Flexibility in marketing Premium products: To prevent situations where filling stations run out of product, the sale of “Premium” diesel at the price of standard diesel has been permitted if stocks of regular product are depleted. The retail price for additized diesel may not exceed the cap set by ANRE for the standard assortment. The measure is optional for operators and is intended to avoid pump closures.

Unblocking funds for Lukoil network: The Government has allowed the use of financial resources held by Lukoil company in banks in the Republic of Moldova exclusively for the purchase of petroleum products. The decision aims to maintain the functionality of this network of stations, thereby reducing pressure on other distributors in the retail market.