Commission opens refining dialogue on fuel supply and defence

The European Commission held the first meeting of its High-Level Dialogue with the European refining industry on October 28, chaired by Commissioners Dan Jørgensen and Andrius Kubilius with refiners, emerging fuel producers and NATO at the table, and said it will work with the sector on a joint roadmap.

Why it matters: The Commission is treating refining capacity as a defence and supply asset, not only an industrial one: EU refineries supply about 70 percent of the jet fuel and 85 percent of the diesel consumed in Europe, at a moment when the Middle East conflict is disrupting fuel supply.

Data as of European Commission news release of October 28, 2026, read in full in this run. All statements, participant lists and background figures are the Commission's own. Single primary source, the issuing body itself, hence grade B. Developing item.

The European Commission launched its first High-Level Dialogue with the European refining industry on October 28, to discuss energy security, defence readiness and industrial competitiveness, with representatives of refiners, emerging fuel producers, engineering and technology companies, industry associations and NATO taking part. The discussion covered the short-term response to the disruptions caused by the conflict in the Middle East and the medium-term outlook for European refineries, including high energy costs, global competition and investment in biofuels and e-fuels.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen said the Commission will work to increase output from refining assets in Europe to bring fuel prices down, and will work with the sector on a joint roadmap for its transformation. The dialogue was announced by President von der Leyen on October 6, and the Commission said its outcomes will feed into shared priorities and possible actions to support the sector.

Commission opens refining dialogue on fuel supply and defence

Sources