The restrictions are in place for unlimited time and are aimed at maintaining services in all regions of Hungary, the statement said.

The measure was prompted by surging demand due to the fuel price cap and falling imports as pressure in the Druzhba pipeline has been low since the suspension of operations earlier this week.

MOL’s own Dunai refinery is also facing maintenance issues, the company said.

The restrictions will affect 194 retailers, operating 10% of petrol stations in Hungary, it said.

MOL is fulfilling all its contracts and reviewing its distribution strategy each week to stay on top of the situation, the statement said.