This Country Activates Fuel Emergency, Prices Exceed Rp 50,000
The Dutch government has officially begun implementing a national fuel crisis plan on Monday local time. This emergency measure follows threats of fuel shortages looming over the world as a direct impact of the outbreak of the United States (US) war against Iran.
Citing a report from Dutch Today, Dutch officials are now in the “alert” phase and are beginning to prepare for the worst-case scenario if the oil supply shortage worsens. The government is starting intensive discussions with the largest fossil fuel users, from transportation to agriculture industries, and closely monitoring international fuel reserves.
ING economist Rico Luman told local broadcasters that the current situation is highly concerning due to the world’s continuously depleting oil stocks. “Oil reserves are increasingly shrinking and the Middle East is no longer sending supplies. In this condition, you have to look for alternatives, and that won’t be easy because the whole world is looking for the same thing,” Luman said on Tuesday (21/4/2026).
Based on data from the Dutch national petrol price index as of 20 April 2026, the price of Euro 95 petrol has now reached €2.521 (Rp 50,924), while diesel is priced at €2.516 (Rp 50,823). For other fuel types, LPG is recorded at €1.339 (Rp 27,047), special petrol (Benzine) at €2.708 (Rp 54,701), special diesel (Diesel) at €2.606 (Rp 52,641), and Super Plus petrol exceeding €2.714 (Rp 54,822).
Although this government policy has not yet directly impacted the general public, the next stages are certain to affect citizens’ activities. The government has prepared extreme fuel usage restriction schemes, such as enforcing car-free Sundays, lowering vehicle speed limits, and banning home delivery services.
The European Commission has also stated that the work-from-home (WFH) scheme is the primary option to save energy. Authorities recommend that companies immediately implement at least one day of working from home per week for their employees.
Citing a report from media outlet NRC, the second phase of this plan will involve issuing warnings about the impending fuel crisis. Meanwhile, the third phase is the alarm phase, and the fourth phase means the energy crisis is real with shortages that can no longer be covered.
If it enters the fourth phase, the Dutch government may implement extraordinary policies, including export restrictions. This step will be taken together with other European Union countries and nations that are members of the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Several sources in The Hague have leaked that the government is also considering increasing tax-free travel allowances. In addition, there are plans to reduce road tax for delivery vans, as well as the establishment of a special fund to help poor households pay their energy bills.
Despite the soaring fuel prices, internal observers estimate that the Netherlands will not cut fuel taxes to offset the price increase, unlike policies taken by many other European Union countries.
Last week, the government’s macroeconomic think tank (CPB) also warned against using expensive generic measures. The CPB advises the Dutch government to opt for quick and targeted support to those most in need due to the crisis.