Financial police intensify inspections across the supply chain as war-driven energy costs raise concerns about speculation. Italy has strengthened inspections across its fuel distribution network as energy prices surge following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, authorities said on Friday.
The operation is being carried out by the Guardia di Finanza, Italy’s financial police, which has intensified controls along the entire fuel supply chain to ensure price transparency and prevent potential speculation.
The increased monitoring was launched following instructions from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, led by Giancarlo Giorgetti, in coordination with the Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy headed by Adolfo Urso.
Rising prices after Middle East escalation
Fuel prices in Italy have climbed sharply in recent days as tensions and military actions in the Middle East disrupted global energy markets.
According to official monitoring data, the national average price for self-service petrol has risen by around 9 cents per litre to about €1.76. Meanwhile, diesel has jumped even more sharply, increasing by nearly 19 cents to around €1.91 per litre.
In some areas, particularly on motorways, diesel prices have exceeded €2.50 per litre, levels consumer groups say have not been seen for years.
The surge reflects broader volatility in global oil and gas markets as the conflict involving Iran and other regional actors raises fears of supply disruptions, particularly around key shipping routes in the Gulf.
Focus on possible speculation
Authorities say the strengthened checks aim to detect any irregular pricing practices or speculative behaviour within the fuel sector.
The inspections will examine the full distribution chain — including refineries, storage facilities, wholesalers and petrol stations — to verify whether price increases are justified by wholesale costs or whether some operators are exploiting the crisis.
Officials from the Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy have said that only a limited number of suspicious cases have been flagged so far. However, they are being reviewed by investigators.
The price surge is already affecting Italian consumers and businesses, particularly in sectors such as transport and logistics that depend heavily on diesel fuel.
The government has been monitoring the broader economic impact of the Middle East conflict, which has pushed energy prices higher and raised concerns about inflation and household costs. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has warned that Italy is prepared to take further measures to counter speculation in the energy sector and protect consumers if necessary.
