Dutch watchdog urges mandatory sharing of petrol prices

The Netherlands’ competition watchdog wants petrol stations to be required to share up-to-date fuel prices, so drivers can compare nearby options more easily. The Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) says the data should be made freely available to route planners and price-comparison services, which could use it in their apps.

In advice to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, the ACM argues that better information would help consumers choose between stations, strengthen competition and contribute to lower prices. It cites international research suggesting mandatory price sharing often leads to lower fuel prices. In Germany, the reported reduction for petrol was about 2 to 3 euro cents per litre, according to the regulator.

The proposal is an advisory recommendation; the report does not say that the requirement has been adopted.