Iran War's Ceasefire Slightly Eases Fuel Prices in Germany but Levels Remain High

As of April 25, 2026, fuel prices in Germany have marginally decreased following the announced ceasefire in the Iran war, yet they remain substantially elevated compared to pre-war rates. Currently, a liter of Super gasoline costs 2.15 euros, while diesel is priced slightly higher at 2.18 euros—a minor change from last week's figures. Prior to the conflict, these prices stood at 1.83 euros for Super and 1.75 euros for diesel. The increased prices closely mirror the surging crude oil costs since the war's outbreak in late February, largely due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for nearly 30% of global oil shipments.

In response, Germany has released part of its oil reserves, fulfilling legal obligations to maintain stock for at least 90 days, as announced by Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche on April 1. Key reserves are held in Wilhelmshaven, Hamburg, and Schleswig-Holstein. Additionally, new regulations limit gas stations to raising prices only once daily at noon, while allowing price decreases anytime to curb volatility. Diesel remains costlier than gasoline owing to its crucial industrial use and higher import reliance. Heating oil prices are also rising due to the conflict, after a prolonged period under one euro per liter.

The Federal Cartel Office is vigilantly monitoring the price developments. Its head, Andreas Mundt, indicated plans to act against anti-competitive practices if detected but acknowledged current limitations in preventing price hikes driven by geopolitical events.