The tax reform takes effect: lower duties on petrol, higher on diesel. Here’s what’s behind the change and what to expect
New fuel duties in effect: here are the numbers
With the publication in the Official Gazette of the implementing decree of the tax reform law, Italy activates a long-awaited realignment of excise duties on fuels.
Specifically, the excise on petrol has been reduced by 15 euros per 1,000 litres, equivalent to 1.5 cents per litre, dropping from 728.40 to 713.40 euros per 1,000 litres. In contrast, the excise on diesel used as fuel has been raised by the same amount, from 617.40 to 632.40 euros per 1,000 litres.
Why is the government realigning fuel taxes?
The move is part of the broader fiscal reform aimed at eliminating the historic imbalance between the two fuels.
Until now, diesel benefited from a lower excise tax, despite being more polluting than petrol. This tax advantage, once justified by economic and logistics needs in the transport sector, is now viewed as inconsistent with the EU’s environmental goals.
Impact at the pump: what drivers will notice
For drivers of petrol vehicles, the effect will be a slight price drop at the pump. Those using diesel-powered vehiclesmay already see a small price increase.
Though the change seems minor, the symbolic impact is significant: a shift in policy favouring cleaner fuels and gradually moving away from diesel dependency.
What’s next for drivers and businesses?
This realignment may be just the beginning. The Italian government plans further actions to promote sustainable mobility and penalise fossil fuels with a higher environmental impact.
Both private motorists and transport companies will need to monitor price trends closely and consider eco-friendlier alternatives, especially in view of future policies and potential incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles.
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