Poland is cutting fuel taxes: how will this affect prices, and will gasoline become cheaper for Ukrainians?
27 March 11:24
The Polish government has decided to reduce the value-added tax and the excise tax on fuel in order to curb rising prices for gasoline and diesel. It is expected that, following these decisions, fuel prices at Polish gas stations could drop by approximately 1.2 zlotys per liter.
This was announced by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, according to "Komersant Ukrainian", citing the Polish news agency PAP.
What taxes is Poland cutting?
According to Donald Tusk, the government plans to:
- reduce the VAT on fuel from 23% to 8%;
- reduce the excise tax on gasoline and diesel;
- introduce price controls at gas stations.
The prime minister noted that these measures are intended to protect consumers from a sharp rise in fuel prices.
“After the tax cuts, fuel prices could drop by about 1.2 zlotys per liter,” Tusk said.
How prices will be controlled
The Polish government also announced its intention to strengthen control over the fuel market.
Specifically:
- the energy minister may set maximum prices;
- the government plans to respond to potential speculation;
- a tax on oil companies’ windfall profits may be introduced.
As Tusk explained, this is necessary to ensure that tax breaks do not become additional profit for sellers but actually affect prices for drivers.
Why Poland made this decision
The decision to lower taxes was made against the backdrop of rising oil prices on global markets. This was caused by geopolitical tensions and disruptions in energy supplies.
As a result, fuel prices began to rise not only in Poland but also in most European countries.
Will there be “fuel tourism”?
The Polish government also acknowledges the possibility of so-called “fuel tourism”—where drivers from neighboring countries flock to Poland for cheaper fuel.
Tusk stated:
“For now, we do not plan to restrict fuel sales, but if fuel tourism arises, we will respond.”
How this could affect Ukraine
Lower fuel prices in Poland could have several consequences for Ukraine:
Possible effects:
- Ukrainians living near the border may refuel in Poland;
- competition in the fuel market may increase;
- there may be psychological pressure on prices in Ukraine;
- traders may adjust prices due to the cost difference.
At the same time, Poland’s decision will not have a direct impact on Ukrainian prices, as they depend on global oil prices, exchange rates, and logistics.
What is happening with fuel prices in Ukraine
In March 2026, fuel prices in Ukraine began to rise due to:
- rising oil prices;
- currency fluctuations;
- logistics costs;
- the situation on global markets.
Economists note that prices at Ukrainian gas stations will remain dependent on global factors in the near future.
Poland’s decision shows that EU governments are ready to use tax mechanisms to curb energy prices.
Such steps could serve as an example for other countries seeking to reduce inflationary pressure on the population and businesses.
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