The Iran war had a heavy impact on Portugal: Drivers' additional fuel bill was calculated as 1.16 billion euros

The price increase in energy markets caused by the war in the Middle East was directly reflected in the pockets of drivers in Portugal. According to ECO's calculation based on fuel consumption and price changes, the additional amount paid by the Portuguese for gasoline and diesel since the start of the war reached approximately 1.16 billion euros.

The figure is not a direct loss calculation announced by the state; Economic forecast based on pre- and post-war prices and the amount of fuel consumed in Portugal.

Approximately 33 cent increase per liter in diesel prices

It is estimated that during the war period, which lasted more than six months, the average price of diesel in Portugal increased by approximately 33 cents per liter and gasoline by approximately 24 cents.

When this difference is applied to the consumption amount across the country, the additional money out of drivers' pockets reaches approximately 6.1 million euros per day.

The total additional cost is calculated as approximately 1.16 billion euros.

Why is Portugal so affected?

Portugal is not a large oil producing country and the change in international crude oil and refined product prices is reflected in the domestic market.

The risk posed by the conflict in the Middle East, especially in oil and natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, put upward pressure on international energy prices.

However, the final price seen at the pump in Portugal does not consist only of the price of crude oil.

International product prices, euro/dollar exchange rate, Refining and distribution costs and taxes such as ISP and VAT also affect the liter price.

The impact is no longer limited to car owners only

The increase in fuel prices also increases the costs of road transport companies.

Therefore, the government is preparing new support mechanisms for freight transport, taxis, fire departments and the social sector.

Fuel subsidies were also extended for the agriculture and fishing sectors.

The retail sector warns that the increase in transportation costs may be reflected in the prices of some food products over time.

Therefore, in the second stage of the energy shock, the problem may not only be "the cost of filling the tank" but may shift to the prices of food and other products.

How should 1.16 billion euros be read?

This amount is not a new tax billed to the Portuguese by the state or the official damage amount announced by the government.

Cumulative additional consumer cost calculated by ECO using the increase in fuel prices and consumption amount during the war period.

This distinction is especially important in interpreting the figure.

Resources

ECO — September 17, 2026

https://eco.sapo.pt/2026/09/17/guerra-no-irao-ja-custou-aos-portugueses-116-mil-milhoes-de-euros-a-mais-para-abastecer-o-carro/

ECO — September 14, 2026

https://eco.sapo.pt/2026/09/14/descontos-no-isp-somam-mil-milhoes-de-euros/