Government's latest price-cap measures in effect

Beginning today, the government's tenth package of measures to curb soaring fuel prices has come into effect. 

Despite this, diesel and regular gasoline will be significantly more expensive over the next two weeks compared to the previous fortnight. The government added that electricity and natural gas prices will remain unchanged for the next six months.

The price of Eurodiesel now stands at 1 euro and 73 cents per litre, while Eurosuper has risen by 21 cents to 1 euro and 62 cents per litre. Blue diesel-used by farmers and fishermen-has jumped by 34 percent, reaching 1 euro and 19 cents per litre.

Opposition parties said on Tuesday that the measures will not curb inflation or rising prices, arguing that the biggest burden will fall on pensioners, workers and large families, while banks and major retail chains stand to benefit the most.

Sandra Benčić of the Možemo! party said that, despite billions of euros invested, the measures have failed to deliver results, noting that Croatia's inflation remains about twice the eurozone average and among the highest in Europe.

Nikola Grmoja, leader of Most, said fuel price caps-largely based on cutting excise taxes-must be accompanied by clear reductions in the state budget. He stressed that his party would not support cuts affecting citizens, young people or pensioners.

"Cut government greed and corruption first, and then there will be room to reduce excise taxes," Grmoja said.

Andro Krstulović Opara of the ruling HDZ said the measures are aimed at preserving economic growth and protecting jobs. He added that Prime Minister Andrej Plenković "reacted decisively, without hesitation," and was among the first in Europe to introduce measures to protect the population.