Italy’s state-controlled energy company, Eni, has implemented a temporary fuel price cap at its stations, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on households and businesses caused by persistently high fuel costs. Effective from Monday, the capped prices are set at €2.19 per litre for diesel and €1.99 for unleaded petrol, which are approximately 17 cents per litre below the average levels reported when the measure was announced. This initiative is seen as a response to the ongoing economic pressure exacerbated by tensions linked to the Iran conflict.
Meanwhile, in Sicily, truck drivers have announced a five-day strike from October 16 to 20, protesting the high fuel prices and what they perceive as inadequate government action regarding their concerns. Taxi drivers have also voiced their dissatisfaction, warning of potential industrial action if the government fails to engage in discussions with them.
Adding to the efforts to curb rising fuel costs, Azerbaijan’s state-owned energy company, SOCAR, plans to implement similar price limits at its IP petrol stations across Italy. These collective measures underscore the widespread impact of elevated fuel prices on various sectors.
In a related move, the Italian government has reduced diesel duties as part of broader measures to control fuel expenses, although this tax reduction is set to expire in early October. These combined actions reflect ongoing efforts to manage the economic strain on consumers and businesses due to fluctuating fuel prices.