A recent price comparison compiled by Postimees reveals that diesel fuel prices in Estonia, excluding excise taxes, are the highest in the European Union. Additionally, 95-octane gasoline in the country ranks as the second most expensive across the bloc.
The report highlights a surprising contrast with Finland, where, despite higher fuel excise taxes, cheaper gasoline could be found at several gas stations this week.
Indrek Sass, the pricing manager for motor fuels at Circle K Eesti, explained the situation: “While most EU member states have domestic fuel production, Estonia does not have a refinery. All fuel must be imported and stored in the country, which increases handling costs.”
Tarmo Kärsna, energy sales area manager at Alexela, added that logistics also play a crucial role in fuel pricing, especially in countries without refineries. He noted that the Baltic states, where the nearest refinery is located in Mažeikiai, Lithuania, face similar challenges.
The Postimees comparison further showed that, when including excise taxes, gasoline in Estonia is more expensive per liter than in many wealthier European countries, such as Austria and Belgium.