BUCHAREST, March 26 (Xinhua) -- The Romanian government on Thursday approved an emergency ordinance declaring a crisis situation on the crude oil and petroleum products market, including gasoline and diesel, for the period from April 1 to June 30.
The measures aim to protect the economy and consumers amid rising pressure in energy markets, the government said.
Authorities noted that the period may be extended in increments of up to three months if conditions persist, with policies subject to regular review.
Under the ordinance, fuel producers, importers and distributors will be required to cap commercial markups at their 2025 average levels.
The government said the move is intended to deter speculative behavior and prevent unjustified price increases. Companies must report markup data to the National Agency for Fiscal Administration, with fines ranging from 0.5 percent to 1 percent of annual turnover for violations.
To ease supply constraints, the government will allow a temporary reduction in biofuel blending requirements for gasoline from 8 percent to a minimum of 2 percent.
Exports of diesel and crude oil will be restricted, with companies required to obtain prior approval from the ministries of economy and energy before exporting or making intra-European Union (EU) deliveries. Unauthorized exports may incur fines of 5 percent to 10 percent of turnover, along with confiscation of the goods.
The ordinance also introduces changes to the natural gas market, including clearer rules for supply allocation among providers, updated reporting requirements, and mechanisms to prevent imbalances and legal disputes.
Energy companies will be required to submit monthly reports on pricing and compliance, while a government task force will continue monitoring global developments and may propose additional measures as needed, the government said. ■