Montenegro’s fuel supply is under increasing strain as global energy prices escalate, conflicting with domestic price caps that could jeopardize the stability of fuel deliveries. The Association of Oil Companies of Montenegro has reported that the cost of acquiring fuel, especially diesel, has surged by approximately 30%, surpassing the maximum retail prices permitted in the domestic market.
This situation is attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions and instability in the Middle East, which have driven international oil and fuel prices higher. Consequently, local companies are compelled to purchase petroleum products at rates that exceed the established maximum retail prices set by Montenegrin regulations.
Fuel distributors have expressed concerns over severe financial pressures arising from this disparity, as domestic sales are occurring at prices up to 30% lower than those in international markets, resulting in operational losses. If these price increases persist, suppliers may find their operations unsustainable, potentially disrupting fuel deliveries crucial for sectors such as transportation, tourism, and overall economic activity.
Reports indicate that some fuel stations are already experiencing temporary shortages, with others likely to follow suit. In response to these challenges, government officials have sought to reassure citizens regarding the country’s energy security. Prime Minister Milojko Spajić noted that reforms enacted the previous year established strategic petroleum reserves intended to safeguard energy supply. Together with commercial inventories held by private entities, these reserves are projected to suffice for approximately two months of normal consumption.
The Council for Securing Fuel Supply to the Market has convened a meeting to assess the current situation and explore potential support measures for smaller fuel distributors facing difficulties.
However, experts remain divided on the government’s optimistic outlook. Data indicates that Montenegro requires about 112,340 tons of fuel products to sustain operations for 90 days; yet current reserves stand at approximately 44,260 tons—equating to around 35 days of consumption. Notably, only about 26,000 tons of these reserves are physically stored within Montenegro itself, which would last roughly three weeks under current demand levels. These reserves are managed by private companies such as Jugopetrol, INA, and Petrol and are subject to market conditions rather than direct governmental oversight.
