The Spanish fuel market has come under the spotlight after a high-profile fine against Repsol. The consequences of this decision could affect millions of drivers and business owners across the country. The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) insists: without tough measures and greater transparency, the situation will only worsen and prices will keep rising.
Monopoly and Its Consequences
In recent years, the Spanish fuel market has increasingly begun to resemble an exclusive club for major players. With its significant influence, Repsol sets the rules not only for competitors, but also for end consumers. In 2022, when fuel prices soared due to the war in Ukraine, the company raised diesel prices for independent stations while offering discounts to its own clients. This approach helped it maintain a dominant position and made it harder for small operators to do business.
The Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) has classified these actions as an abuse of market power. The €20.5 million fine is the largest in recent years, but according to the OCU, it is not enough. Even after the penalty, the market structure remains the same: the three largest companies control up to 90% of all fuel stations in the country.
Prices Above the European Average
Consumers have long noticed that fuel prices in Spain consistently exceed the European average. An OCU analysis showed that after the government introduced a discount of 20 cents per liter, major oil companies kept prices about five cents higher than in other EU countries. This is especially felt on highways and in regions with few alternative gas stations.
In these conditions, independent operators lose the ability to compete, forcing drivers to pay more. OCU emphasizes that the lack of real competition means even government support measures do not fully reach consumers. Instead of lowering prices, companies use crisis situations to boost their own profits.
Demands to the authorities
OCU urges the government and regulators not to limit their response to isolated fines. Systemic changes are needed: stricter controls, more transparent pricing, and support for small and medium-sized businesses. Only then can true competition be fostered and citizens’ interests protected.
The organization highlights the importance of ongoing market monitoring, especially during periods of sharp price fluctuations. It is crucial that authorities respond not just to complaints, but also to hidden schemes that allow major players to bypass antitrust regulations. Without this, any sanctions remain only a formality.
The future of the market
Experts point out that if the situation doesn’t change, Spain risks losing its independent operators entirely. This would lead to even greater market concentration and rising prices for everyone. OCU suggests introducing measures to facilitate market entry for new companies, especially in regions with limited fueling options.
Among the proposals are simplifying procedures for opening new stations, reducing administrative barriers, and promoting the development of low-cost networks. Only through such steps can there be real price reductions and improved service quality for consumers.
Repsol is Spain’s largest energy company, founded in 1987. It owns an extensive network of fuel stations across the country and holds a leading position in the petroleum market. The company actively invests in new technologies and alternative energy, but its dominant position is often the subject of disputes and investigations. In recent years, Repsol has repeatedly faced accusations of restricting competition and inflating prices, drawing criticism from both consumers and independent market operators.
