Before the next “Taskforce” meetings organized by the CDU/CSU and the SPD to discuss the soaring energy prices, the farmers’ association is demanding that the diesel tax be suspended.
“The energy tax on diesel must be temporarily lifted” President Joachim Rukwied told the “Rheinische Post” (Friday edition). “Time is pressing; only then can food production be maintained”.
Rukwied added that the sharp rise in diesel prices-and the accompanying spike in fertilizer costs-has put a severe strain on agriculture, especially during the spring ordering period. “The taxes must come down” he said.
The upcoming taskforce consultations will involve, among others, the farmers’ association and the consumer advocacy group VZBV. While high fuel costs will be a primary focus, increasing food prices are also on the agenda. One of the proposals under discussion is lowering the VAT on basic food items to 0 %.
