The government compensated them with 50 lekë per liter, transport associations request a three-month extension of the fuel subsidy period

Since the beginning of the conflict in Iran, fuel prices in the country have remained at high levels for nearly three months, affecting the costs of public transport operators.

In order to prevent operators from quickly falling into financial difficulty due to high fuel prices, an additional three-month extension of the compensation period is being requested, specifically for the months of July to September.

At the latest government meeting, a decision was approved to provide fuel compensation at the level of 50 lekë per liter for a three-month period, from March to May.

In a letter addressed to the government, including the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Energy, the Urban Public Transport Association, representing urban, suburban, and intercity public transport operators, requested the extension of this support measure for another additional three months.

“Given that fuel represents one of the main costs of public transport activity, the continued high prices have significantly increased the economic burden on transport operators, making it difficult to fulfill financial obligations and ensure the normal continuation of public service for citizens.

Therefore, we request measures for the extension of the financial compensation of 50 lekë/liter of fuel for the July–September 2026 period as well, continuing with the same procedures, criteria, and documentation defined in the current normative act.

We also consider the continuation of this support measure necessary to guarantee the continuity and stability of public transport services; avoid reducing fleet size and service frequency; protect citizens’ interests and the affordability of public transport; and preserve the financial balance of licensed sector operators,” the letter states.

Before the approval of compensation to help cover costs caused by rising fuel prices, the National Urban Transport Association and the Urban and Interurban Transport Association had sent several letters to the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Finance, and municipalities regarding the financial difficulties high fuel prices were causing for public transport operators.

On April 1, operators also held a meeting with Economy Minister Delina Ibrahimaj, where they requested the implementation of a scheme similar to that of 2022, when due to the price crisis operators were compensated for six months with 100 lekë per liter of fuel.

Due to the failure to meet their demands, operators also blocked bus transportation for citizens in Tirana and other districts for nearly two days, reducing the number of vehicles by up to 60%.

“KORÇA BOOM”