German minister pushes oil firms to lower pump prices
Germany’s finance minister, Lars Klingbeil, said oil companies must pass on the benefits of a government fuel tax cut to consumers, as Berlin moves to cushion the impact of rising energy costs.
The measure, which took effect on 1 May, reduces energy taxes on diesel and petrol by about 0.17 euros per litre and will remain in place through June.
Klingbeil told Reuters that authorities will monitor pricing closely, warning that companies must accept their responsibility.
The German Federal Cartel Office said the discount has largely reached consumers, though some petrol stations have raised prices, as Europe’s largest economy grapples with broader energy market pressures.