what is in store for Romanians with petrol and diesel cars

A new bill announced by the Ministry of Transport announces changed and increased fees. In this sense, the representatives of the companies in the field announce protests.

This draft law announced by the ministry shows that the wreckage will no longer be paid according to the time period, as it is currently, but based on the number of kilometers traveled and the pollution rate. This has a negative financial impact for drivers, especially truck and TIR drivers.

Even car drivers will not escape the price hikes. During a debate at the Ministry of Transport, the representatives of the transport companies stated that they will not be able to afford the colossal tolls. The new ruins will be depending on the time period, but also depending on the pollution rate and kilometers traveled.

Following a study carried out, the tax for a Euro 6 car could increase in price from the current 28 Euros to 39 Euros in 2026. In the case of TIRs, which end up registering up to 100 thousand kilometers annually, the new tax would increase substantially, from the current 1,210 euros to 7,000 euros. However, representatives of the Ministry of Transport stated that in these cases, the new tax could be recalculated.

“Simulations, not necessarily as a value, but as a calculation methodology will be a starting point. The assurance given was that the tariffs will remain the lowest in Europe”, said Lucian Calmuș, CNAIR.

Increased taxes for drivers from 2026

On the other hand, the transport companies made their own estimates. According to a representative of a transport company, Doru Husarciu, if the goods are transported over a distance of 400 kilometers with a 20-ton truck, the cost will be 2 euros extra for each kilogram, and the cost will end up being transferred the final consumer.

“I think that first we should take a break for at least 5 years, finish the highways that are currently underway and after 5 years come and say like this: look, we also have 3-4-5,000 km of highway and we charge it”, according to Vasile Ștefănescu, president of the Confederation of Authorized Operators and Transporters from Romania.

However, the good news is that domestic bridge tolls will disappear. As stated by the Minister of Transport, Sorin Grindeanu, there are some milestones that must be met in the PNRR, and one of them establishes a certain charging per kilometer that occurs throughout Europe and less so in Romania. This legislative project is to be debated in the Parliament, to enter into force in 2026.