French Government Announces New Aid Amid 30% Drop in Fuel Consumption

The French government is set to unveil new support measures on Tuesday at 5 PM to assist households and businesses severely affected by rising gasoline and diesel prices. This announcement comes amid a significant 30% decline in fuel consumption in France from September 11 to 20 compared to the first ten days of the month, as reported by the Ministry of Action and Public Accounts.

The government's capacity to maneuver financially is limited due to constrained budgetary flexibility and ongoing international pressures, particularly linked to the conflict in the Middle East, which continues to drive up fuel prices. This situation has strained French consumers' budgets and caused a sharp fall in fuel tax revenues by approximately 407 million euros compared to last year, impacting VAT and excise collections.

Francis Pousse, president of the Mobilians union representing fuel stations, emphasized the financial difficulties faced by rural gas stations due to reduced fuel sales, warning that many could face closure if the current trends persist. Consumers have become more cautious, often purchasing smaller amounts of fuel to manage their expenses.

Finance Minister David Amiel highlighted the toll this crisis is taking on fiscal revenues and acknowledged the complexity of balancing support for households with a tight budget. The measures to be presented aim to alleviate the financial burden on French citizens and businesses suffering from soaring fuel costs, although officials caution that international constraints are likely to continue influencing the cost of energy resources.

As the government prepares to detail its plans, French households and businesses remain under pressure from sustained high fuel prices and decreasing consumption, marking a critical moment for national economic and social policy.