Since July 24, Croatian oil companies INA and Petrol have temporarily limited their fuel dispensing to 300 liters per refueling process. According to INA, the measure is intended to ensure security of supply during the tourist high season and prevent local shortages. The company cites increased demand and uncertainties on international energy markets as further reasons. The regulation applies until further notice.
However, there is good news for recreational boaters: As INA explicitly states, the 300-liter limit does not apply to refueling watercraft. Gas stations on Croatian motorways are also exempt. According to the current situation, there is therefore no general dispensing stop or quantity limit at Croatian boat fuel stations.
Why the fuel limit was introduced
The background to the measure is the expected increase in state-regulated fuel prices.
According to consistent media reports, the Croatian government is set to decide on the new maximum prices; “from Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the new prices are expected to be
- EUR 1.62 per liter of petrol (an increase of EUR 0.08/l),
- EUR 1.75 per liter of diesel (an increase of EUR 0.16/l), and
- EUR 1.21 for blue diesel (an increase of EUR 0.19/l)”,
says Denis Lipovac from SeaHelp headquarters in Punat, adding that this price adjustment will initially apply for 14 days.
The refueling limit is intended to prevent panic buying before the new prices take effect.
According to INA, there is no supply shortage. The refinery in Rijeka is operating stably, and there are also sufficient fuel reserves available.
Editorial note: Numerous reports are currently circulating on social media claiming that the 300-liter limit also applies to boat fuel stations. This claim cannot be confirmed based on the current situation. On the contrary: INA explicitly names the refueling of vessels as an exception to the regulation. (Source: portal.hr).
