WARSAW – Polish energy group Orlen reduced wholesale fuel prices on Tuesday, with gasoline falling by 45 złoty to 5,688 złoty (1,334 euros) per cubic meter and diesel by 87 złoty to 7,171 złoty (1,682 euros) per cubic meter.
The price reductions follow a more significant decrease between March 10th and 11th, when gasoline prices fell by 94 złoty and diesel by 164 złoty. This initial move represented the company’s first substantial response to the escalation of conflict in the Middle East at the end of February, which triggered a sharp rise in crude oil and fuel prices. The move underscores the sensitivity of European energy markets to geopolitical events.
According to Minister of State Assets Wojciech Balczun, Orlen is working to mitigate the impact of rising prices on consumers by reducing its margins. “The company cannot act in a way that causes it damage,” Balczun stated on Monday. He added that further tools for influencing prices, such as excise duty or VAT, are the responsibility of the state.
Orlen also assured stakeholders that oil supplies to its refineries are proceeding as planned, and diversification of sources is reducing risks associated with instability in the Middle East. The company’s efforts to secure supply chains are crucial given ongoing global uncertainties.
Earlier in March, Orlen announced a near-zero reduction in its diesel margin and introduced temporary discounts for drivers through its loyalty program. These measures demonstrate the company’s commitment to providing some relief to consumers amid fluctuating energy costs.
