The Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (VZBV) has called on oil and fuel conglomerates to handle the end of the fuel discount fairly. Ramona Pop, a board member of the VZBV, stated, “The end of the fuel discount must not become the starting signal for excessive profits.” She argued that the fuel companies have no reason to raise prices more significantly than the expired tax relief has adjusted them. “The basic principle is: if they pass on rising crude oil prices immediately, they cannot slam on the brakes when prices fall.” She also noted that the Federal Cartel Office remains obliged to keep a close watch on the situation. Furthermore, Pop insisted that given the persistently high energy prices, the federal government must finally fulfill its promise to lower the electricity tax for private households. “This provides lasting relief for consumers and makes the switch to climate-friendly alternatives more attractive.”
Economy / Finance
