Following the failure of the €1,000 relief premium in the Bundesrat, former Federal Minister of Economics Peter Altmaier (CDU) advocated for extending the current fuel discount. Speaking to the TV channel “Welt” on Tuesday, Altmaier argued that since gas prices have dropped significantly due to the discount and stable oil market pricing, the trend supports maintaining the relief until oil prices reach a more reasonable level.
Altmaier offered an alternative approach, suggesting that if further support is needed, the ruling coalition should examine tax reliefs for employees who require vehicles for their jobs, possibly by adjusting the employee allowance. He stressed that the coalition must dedicate attention to this issue to honor the promises of relief made to the public.
However, he emphasized that the primary focus must remain on tax reform. He stated that the goal of the reform is to ensure that increased work efforts translate into greater disposable income for the individual, by relieving the middle and high-income groups, employees, and families.
While he does not expect a comprehensive tax reform agreement that night due to disagreements among parties, he hopes for a positive policy message from the summit. Specifically, he suggested that the CDU/CSU and SPD could agree to grant a relief of five to ten percent to skilled workers and related employees, effective January 1, 2027.
Altmaier also issued a warning against any outcome from the coalition committee that merely reflects “helplessness”. He argued that German businesses critically require clear guidelines regarding tax policy, bureaucracy reduction, and social policy over the next three years. He concluded by expressing confidence that the economy can recover, but stressing that the coalition must finally learn from and address the consequences of recent mistakes.
