Bundesregierung: Spritpreise: Merz für Entlastung – aber gegen Übergewinnsteuer

Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (CDU) has announced plans for short-term financial relief to consumers amid soaring fuel prices. During a meeting at the Handelsverbands BGA, Merz stated, "Yes, we will respond to price gouging. I believe we need to take action." The precise measures have not been decided, but "you can expect a proposal very soon."

The federal cartel office has been given the authority to oversee abuse, but Merz acknowledged that "we also feel, at least from the consumer perspective, that this is not enough." For many people relying on their cars daily, the burden has reached a limit. The government is closely coordinating with the states on this issue. As fuel prices continue to rise, the debate over relief measures intensifies.

Recently, the price of a liter of Super E10 reached an average of 2.286 euros, while diesel was 2.412 euros per liter, only a few cents away from setting a new record. In response to these developments, the government has faced pressure to act. Economy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) suggested providing targeted direct payments to specific population groups.

However, not everyone agrees, even within her own party. Some CDU politicians, like Sebastian Steineke, have called for a temporary reduction in the energy tax to match the "European minimum" and a review of German CO2 prices. On the other hand, the AfD is advocating for a permanent reduction in fuel taxes and fees, abolishing the CO2 tax, and cutting the value-added tax.