Petrol prices in the Netherlands have dipped below €2.50 per litre for the first time since early July, providing some relief to drivers amid a period of elevated fuel costs. According to UnitedConsumers, the recommended price for regular Euro95 petrol fell to €2.485 per litre on Thursday, a drop of over two cents from the previous day. This decline comes after a peak of €2.732 per litre recorded on October 10.
Diesel prices have also decreased, reaching €2.647 per litre, which is approximately 18 cents below the peak level of €2.824 observed in mid-September. Premium Euro98 petrol saw an even more significant reduction, plummeting 25 cents in less than a month to €2.698 per litre.
Despite these declines, fuel prices in the Netherlands remain notably higher than in neighboring countries, primarily due to high fuel taxes, which rank among the highest in Europe. This price disparity has led many Dutch motorists to seek cheaper fuel options in Belgium.
The reduction in international oil prices, which has fueled the decline in petrol costs, is attributed to expectations of a diplomatic resolution to ongoing Middle East tensions that previously drove energy costs higher.
Prior to the start of the conflict in late February, recommended prices were €2.285 per litre for Euro95 petrol and €2.084 per litre for diesel. Although prices have fallen, they remain above their pre-conflict levels, indicating that while the current situation offers some relief, it has not reverted to earlier rates.