Prime Minister Edi Rama announced a conditional 20% reduction in fuel excise taxes as part of measures to shield consumers from rising global energy prices, according to remarks made in his weekly podcast “Flasim.”

Rama said the measure will take effect immediately if diesel prices exceed 220 lek per liter and gasoline surpasses 200 lek per liter. The move comes in response to sharp increases in fuel costs driven by ongoing volatility in international markets, particularly linked to the impact of global conflicts.

“The government has approved the promised normative act to reduce the fuel excise,” Rama said, emphasizing that the thresholds are pre-set to ensure a fair and balanced intervention. “These are developments beyond our control, but we have the obligation to mitigate their immediate impact on consumers without undermining public financial stability.”

Rama also confirmed that Albania’s Transparency Board has been activated to monitor global market trends and ensure that domestic fuel prices accurately reflect international fluctuations. The board will remain responsible for overseeing price adjustments and enforcing compliance.

The prime minister warned that strict penalties will be imposed on fuel distributors who violate pricing rules established by the board.

“This is a timely and measured response that guarantees fast decision-making and full accountability,” Rama added. “It ensures that citizens and drivers are protected from abuse.”

The temporary measure will remain in place until the international market stabilizes, as uncertainty in global energy markets continues to persist.