TRIESTE – Italy’s Council of Ministers has approved an emergency decree to curb the fuel price surge linked to international tensions, introducing a temporary reduction in excise duties.
The measure, proposed by the government led by Giorgia Meloni together with the competent ministries, provides for a tax cut on petrol, diesel and LPG for twenty days from 19 March. The estimated effect is a reduction in pump prices of about 25 euro cents per litre for petrol and diesel and 12 cents per kilogram for LPG.
The decree also includes measures for the sectors most exposed to rising energy costs. For road haulage, an extraordinary support measure is предусмотрed in the form of a tax credit, calculated on the higher expenditure incurred in March, April and May compared with February 2026. The operational details will be set out in a subsequent measure. Alongside the tax reduction, the decree introduces price control measures. For three months, oil companies will have to report and publish their recommended prices, which will be monitored by the price watchdog of the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy. Penalties are envisaged for failure to communicate the data or for non-compliant behaviour.
Oversight is being strengthened across the entire supply chain, with the aim of identifying anomalies and countering speculative practices, including through reports to the competent authorities. Further measures may be considered after the European Council meeting of 19 March.
