Only 30 litres daily? The first petrol station in Hungary to limit customers

A small petrol station in southern Hungary has introduced an unusual restriction, limiting customers to 30 litres of petrol or diesel per vehicle per day, a move that has puzzled drivers and frustrated some local businesses.

The filling station, located in the village of Őcsény in Tolna County, has displayed a sign informing motorists about the measure. According to the operator, the restriction was implemented “due to the current situation”, although no further details were given about the specific reasons behind the decision, writes Világgazdaság.hu.

Farmers and drivers express frustration

The rule has drawn criticism from several local motorists, particularly those working in agriculture. One farmer told local media that the restriction makes refuelling agricultural machinery extremely difficult.

He explained that his tractor has a 130-litre fuel tank, meaning the 30-litre limit would require multiple visits to the petrol station just to fill it. During the busy spring agricultural season, when diesel consumption rises sharply, such a limitation could result in significant time and financial losses. As a result, some farmers are already considering using other petrol stations in the area.

Local journalists contacted several nearby filling stations but found no similar restrictions elsewhere, suggesting the decision may be related to local circumstances rather than a broader national trend.

Yesterday, we wrote about fuel prices soaring uncontrollably in Hungary: how do our prices compare to those in the region?

No nationwide fuel shortages

Industry representatives emphasise that Hungary’s fuel supply remains stable. According to the Hungarian Petroleum Association, member companies still have sufficient reserves, and there are no widespread queues or shortages at filling stations.

However, temporary supply pressures may occur at smaller stations, partly because diesel demand typically rises when agricultural work begins in spring. Meanwhile, the refinery operated by MOL Group in Százhalombatta is currently running at about 70% capacity following earlier fire-related repairs, although experts say this has not disrupted national supply.

In case you didn’t know, it’s looking grim: a massive new crisis looms, and Hungary could be among the biggest losers.

Global energy market pressures remain

Despite stable supply within Hungary, international factors continue to influence fuel prices. Rising global oil prices and the weakening Hungarian forint could push petrol and diesel costs higher in the coming months, analysts warn. For now, however, the restriction at the Őcsény station appears to be an isolated local measure rather than the start of a nationwide policy.