Answer to Parliamentary Question: Toll charge system in Slovenia

Publication date: 10 June 2009

WRITTEN QUESTION by Jörg Leichtfried (PSE) to the Commission

Subject: Toll charge system in Slovenia

On 1 July 2008 Slovenia introduced a new toll charge system. This means that, in order simply to drive through Slovenia, motorists need to purchase at least a six-month ‘vignette’ costing EUR 35 (a fivefold increase over the previous charge of approx. EUR 7) or, alternatively, a 12-month ‘vignette’ costing EUR 55. After Slovenia altered its toll charge system due to pressure from the Commission, a one-week ‘vignette’ costing EUR 15 will now be introduced. On the other hand, the price of the 12-month ‘vignette’ is being increased from EUR 55 to EUR 95 and the six-month ‘vignette’ (EUR 35) is being abolished. Anyone who drives through Slovenia on the way to the Croatian coast and stays there for over a week is now forced to purchase two ‘vignettes’ for a total of EUR 30. Until now this would have cost at least EUR 35, but for this price motorists can use Slovenian motorways for a period of half a year.

The new arrangements still appear to be discriminatory and thus continue unequivocally to breach EU principles.

In view of the above, will the Commission say: 1. Is it aware of these developments?

2. What action does it intend to take to remedy this situation?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

The Commission has been informed on 4 and 8 May 2009 that the Slovenian government has decided to change its vignette system. Once the details of the intended changes are known, they will be assessed by the Commission.

Source: European Parliament