Diesel prices in Greece are surging to exceptionally high levels. According to Star, diesel prices in major cities are approaching €2.50 per liter, while on the islands they are estimated to potentially reach as high as €2.70 per liter.
Read also: Parapolitika 90.1 confirmed by government spokesman Marinakis: Fuel measures to be announced September 30, heating oil measures on October 14
Soaring diesel prices hit businesses and consumers hard
The situation is expected to have a significant impact on consumers, as the rising operational costs are proving difficult for businesses to absorb, and will likely be passed on to the prices of goods and services. Furthermore, due to the high operating costs, businesses may be forced to scale back their activities or implement staff cuts.
It is worth noting that information broadcast by Parapolitika 90.1 radio regarding the timeline for announcing energy crisis support measures has since been confirmed by government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis.
Parapolitika 90.1 confirmed by government spokesman Marinakis
Responding to a related question, the government spokesman stated: “The measures for motor fuels will be announced on 30/09, as happens every time. However, on this occasion they will cover the following 15-day period due to volatility in international oil prices. On October 14, new announcements will be made that will also include heating oil, as its distribution begins on 15/10. The commercial interventions by the companies themselves will also be outlined, so that citizens will have a complete picture. The Prime Minister has already set the framework for these interventions,” said Mr. Marinakis.
Regarding the reduction of fuel taxes — a key demand from the opposition — Mr. Marinakis noted that “in principle, none of us are opposed to reducing the Special Consumption Tax or VAT, but this must be done within the available fiscal margins,” adding that “we have reached the spending ceilings and are requesting that Europe grant us the ability to reduce the tax.”
It should be noted that Parapolitika 90.1 had reported since the morning that the extension of the diesel subsidy would be announced on the coming Wednesday (30/9). The same sources indicated that both the subsidy and the across-the-board increase in the heating allowance would be announced shortly before heating oil distribution begins on October 15.
