The Cabinet of Ministers on Wednesday, March 18, approved the “Fuel Cashback” program, which the government had preliminarily announced last week. The mechanism will begin operating on March 20 within the framework of the already functioning “National Cashback” system. Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced this.
The decision comes amid rising prices in global oil and petroleum product markets, triggered by supply disruptions due to the conflict in the Middle East. In early March, Ukrainian gas stations also responded by increasing fuel prices. The new program aims to partially offset these costs for end consumers. For American and British drivers accustomed to fuel price volatility, this targeted state support mechanism offers a glimpse into how European governments are addressing energy affordability.
Compensation Amount
According to the government resolution, Ukrainians will be able to receive partial refunds when purchasing fuel at gas stations participating in the program. The following cashback rates have been established:
- diesel fuel – 15%;
- gasoline – 10%;
- autogas (LPG) – 5%.
According to government estimates, this mechanism will allow savings of 2 to 11 hryvnias (approximately $0.05 to $0.25*) per liter, depending on the fuel type and current prices. The maximum monthly compensation per person is capped at 1,000 hryvnias ($22.75*).
How to Get Cashback
The program is integrated into the “National Cashback” system. To participate, you must:
- open a card with one of the program’s partner banks;
- select this card for payments and payouts in the “Diia” app;
- pay for fuel at participating gas stations.
Compensation is accrued automatically when paying by card. The saved funds can be spent on utility bills, medicines, Ukrainian-made products, books, postal services, or donated to support the Ukrainian military.
Program Duration
The program launches on March 20 and will run until May 1, 2026. The government promises to announce any extension or termination later, depending on the economic situation and fuel price dynamics.
Reasons for Launch and Market Context
The rise in fuel prices in Ukraine in March is linked to external factors. Oil and petroleum products have become significantly more expensive on global markets due to supply disruptions caused by the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Ukraine, as an importer of petroleum products, responds quickly to such fluctuations, which is reflected in the cost of fuel at domestic gas stations.
The cashback program is viewed by the government as a tool for targeted support of citizens during periods of price volatility without directly interfering with market pricing. Similar mechanisms have been used before to stimulate the purchase of domestic goods.
Assessments and Prospects
Experts note that 1,000 hryvnias ($22.75*) in maximum monthly compensation is an amount comparable to savings on 2-3 fill-ups of a full tank. While this won’t solve the problem of rising prices dramatically, it can serve as a psychological buffer for consumers. A more significant factor remains the situation on global markets and the hryvnia exchange rate.

The government does not rule out that if unfavorable pricing conditions persist, the program may be extended after May 1. The decision will be made based on monitoring results of both the domestic market and external factors.
More details about the program’s terms can be found on the official initiative page.
* Note: Calculations in hryvnias are based on the exchange rate as of March 18, 2026: 1 USD = 43.9497 UAH. The amounts presented in the article are approximate and may differ when converted to other currencies or on another date. For real-time calculations, use the currency converter.
