Moldova Prepares for Fuel Shortage Amid Global Price Increases

The Republic of Moldova has declared a state of heightened readiness in its energy sector to prevent fuel shortages. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan explained that this measure aims to manage the situation proactively and ensure a steady supply of diesel fuel to the market.

The current difficulties are caused by several factors, including damage to oil terminals at the port of Novorossiysk in Kazakhstan, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and a sharp drop in water levels in the Danube. These issues have triggered a rise in global oil prices and complicated the delivery of fuel by barge to the port of Giurgiulești.

The Republic of Moldova is heavily dependent on imports from Romania, with around 99% of its gasoline, 70% of its diesel fuel, 70% of its liquefied petroleum gas, and 100% of its jet fuel coming from there. Disruptions in Kazakh oil supplies have affected operations at the Petromidia oil refinery, leading to shortages across Moldova.

The government is considering alternative supply routes from Turkey and Bulgaria to mitigate the impact of these disruptions. Energy Minister Dorin Jungheteu stated that it will take at least a week for the supply and processing of crude oil to return to normal even after Kazakh exports resume.