Iran Conflict Drives Fuel Prices Up in Germany Amid Government Actions

Germany is experiencing a significant rise in fuel prices due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. As of March 15, 2026, the average price for Super gasoline stands at 2.10 euros per liter, and Diesel at 2.16 euros per liter. This marks a notable increase from pre-conflict prices, which were 1.83 euros for Super gasoline and 1.75 euros for Diesel. The surge in prices is linked to disruptions in crude oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for nearly 30% of the world’s oil supply, causing global crude oil prices to escalate.

In response, the German government is planning to release parts of its national oil reserves to help stabilize fuel costs. Bundeswirtschaftsministerin Katherina Reiche emphasized that there is no current supply shortage and that easing market fears could help temper the price hikes. Additionally, the Fuels and Energy Association assured that Germany’s diverse oil imports — from around 30 countries including Norway, the USA, Libya, Kazakhstan, and the UK — mitigate any risk of supply interruptions. Heating oil prices have also climbed, moving up from last year's levels below one euro per liter.

The Bundeskartellamt is closely monitoring the situation for illegal anti-competitive practices by oil companies. Its president, Andreas Mundt, noted that while geopolitical factors drive the price increases, the authority stands ready to act against any cartel law violations. Moreover, the federal government is moving to toughen antitrust laws to curb excessive fuel price hikes. A draft bill has been completed that will require companies to justify price increases and limit fuel price adjustments at gas stations to once per day. This legislation aims to make price gouging more difficult and has already been forwarded to the Bundestag for consideration.

In the wider context, these measures come amid ongoing global tensions, with reports indicating heavy casualties from Israeli-American military actions in Iran. Still, Germany’s energy sector assures consumers of stable supply despite rising prices. The efforts to balance market stability and prevent unjustified price surges reflect a proactive approach to managing the fallout from geopolitical conflicts affecting energy markets.