Discussing the issue of diesel prices on Digi24 alongside Valentin Chisoceanu, Eugenia Gusilov explained that current pump prices in Romania bear little relation to international Brent quotations, being instead driven by regional and local factors.

Regionally, the cessation of Russian diesel exports since July 8 has tightened the market. Furthermore, Russia has been competing with importing countries, including Romania, to secure diesel for its domestic market.

Locally, the structural deficit is evident as Romania imported 2 million tons of diesel last year alone. Additionally, the Petrotel-Lukoil refinery has been closed, halting domestic production of fuels that now must be imported.

Finally, government fiscal policy plays a role. While the state invokes European legislation to maintain high taxes, other EU members like Poland have previously reduced VAT on diesel to ease consumer pressures.