Fuel Pressure Builds Across France Amid Panic Buying

(MENAFN) According to reports and statements from government officials, fuel shortages have been spreading across France after a wave of drivers rushed to fill their tanks following the introduction of price caps, putting significant strain on supply at many petrol stations.

The French Energy Ministry said around 900 stations have run out of at least one type of fuel, including roughly 700 outlets operated by energy company TotalEnergies. Authorities attributed the situation mainly to distribution and logistics disruptions rather than an overall shortage of fuel in the country.

Other estimates suggest that as many as 1,600 stations may have experienced temporary shortages, driven by a sharp rise in demand and higher fuel prices linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Diesel prices in France have reportedly climbed to record levels of about €2.25 per liter.

The broader energy market has also been affected by the war involving Iran and Israel, which has contributed to a global rise in oil prices. The disruption has significantly impacted supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for a large share of global crude shipments.

In response to rising demand, TotalEnergies extended its cap on gasoline and diesel prices across mainland France until early April. The company reported a notable increase in customer traffic since mid-March and warned of localized supply pressures, especially for diesel fuel.

A government spokesperson said that fewer than 10% of stations were affected by shortages and stressed that there was no immediate risk of a nationwide fuel crisis. The spokesperson also noted that France maintains substantial strategic reserves and can intervene if necessary to address temporary disruptions.

Energy price increases are also contributing to broader inflationary pressure in the French economy. Official data shows inflation rising to 1.9% in March, the highest level since mid-2024, with energy costs increasing by 7.3% after a prolonged period of decline.

Industry figures have also raised concerns about potential future shortages in Europe. The chief executive of a major energy company warned that damage to energy infrastructure in the Gulf region linked to the conflict could disrupt fuel supplies further, with jet fuel already affected and diesel potentially next, followed by gasoline ahead of the summer travel period.

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