The Greek government has announced a temporary cap on profit margins for fuel and supermarket products in an effort to prevent profiteering as global energy prices surge amid tensions in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the measures would remain in place for three months.
According to Greece’s Independent Market Monitoring Authority, heating oil prices increased by 17.41% within a week, while road diesel rose by 15.26%. Higher fuel costs have also started to affect some food products, particularly in rural areas.
“Obviously, we cannot address primary price increases, but we are certainly sending a message that this economic turmoil should not lead to profiteering,” Mitsotakis said during a meeting with President Konstantinos Tasoulas.
Under the new rules, the government will cap profit margins on petrol and diesel at 12 cents per litre above the wholesale price at gas stations. Supermarkets will also face strict controls, with companies risking fines of up to five million euros if their profit margins exceed the average recorded in 2025.
The measures will take effect immediately and remain in place until the end of June, authorities said. Officials also announced that inspections will be carried out.
Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos emphasized that “profits are legitimate but profiteering is not.”