Iran Conflict Drives Fuel Prices Up in Germany Despite Slight Decrease After Ceasefire

Fuel prices in Germany have experienced a slight decrease following the ceasefire announcement in Iran, but they remain significantly higher compared to pre-war levels. As of April 15, 2026, the average price for Super gasoline stands at 2.15 euros per liter, down marginally from the previous week, while diesel costs about 2.24 euros per liter, reflecting a notable drop from earlier higher prices but still well above the 1.83 euros and 1.75 euros for Super and diesel respectively before the conflict began.

The increase in fuel prices is directly linked to the surge in crude oil prices resulting from disruptions caused by the Iran conflict, especially due to restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz— a crucial passage for nearly 30% of the world's oil transport. This geopolitical tension has placed upward pressure on oil prices globally, influencing the German fuel market.

In response, the German government has taken strategic measures to dampen price spikes by releasing portions of the nation's oil reserves. This release is part of an international initiative announced by Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche on April 1, 2026. Germany is legally required to maintain reserves adequate for at least 90 days of supply, kept in locations including Wilhelmshaven near Hamburg and Heide in Schleswig-Holstein.

Additionally, the Bundestag has legislated new rules to limit gas stations to raising prices only once daily at noon, with the ability to decrease prices at any other time. This aims to reduce harmful price volatility and protect consumers from rapid fluctuations during this uncertain period.

Diesel prices have consistently surpassed gasoline prices throughout the conflict, mainly because diesel is more heavily utilized in industry and as a substitute for natural gas, compounded by Germany's heavier reliance on diesel imports compared to domestic gasoline production. Heating oil prices have also increased markedly in connection with soaring crude oil prices, moving well above last year's average below one euro per liter.

The Bundeskartellamt, Germany’s competition regulator, is closely monitoring market developments. Andreas Mundt, head of the authority, has indicated readiness to act firmly against any signs of anti-competitive practices by oil companies amidst the challenging geopolitical price environment, while acknowledging that geopolitical-driven price increases remain difficult to control.

Overall, although fuel prices have eased slightly since the ceasefire, Germans continue to face elevated costs at the pumps, reflecting the broader global impact of the Iran conflict on energy markets.