Hungary has adopted new legislation that ends the government-imposed price caps on petrol and diesel, which had been in place since March. The change removes direct fuel price intervention as policymakers state that current market conditions no longer justify emergency controls.
Market-based pricing replaces regulated ceilings
Economy and Energy Minister István Kapitány said the government considers the crisis phase to be over. He added that fuel prices should again be determined primarily by market dynamics. The previous ceilings of €1.69 per liter for petrol and €1.75 per liter for diesel have been formally removed.
Emergency mechanism remains available for volatility
Even after deregulation, Hungary has kept a safety mechanism in place. Under the new framework, authorities retain the right to reintroduce price controls if severe market disruptions occur. The minister responsible for trade policy can activate temporary caps through a decree in extraordinary circumstances.
Excise tax relief and MOL margin limits continue
Some supporting measures remain unchanged following the end of regulated pricing. The reduced excise tax regime on fuels will continue. Energy company MOL is expected to maintain lower commercial margins introduced during the period when prices were regulated.
