Last year, the Cabinet chose to reduce the excise duty on petrol, among other things, to accommodate people for high prices. Costs had risen sharply due to the consequences of the pandemic and the outbreak of war in Ukraine. The reduction in excise duties has helped to curb inflation, but inflation levels are still high. However, the Cabinet has chosen to use the old excise rates again since the beginning of July.
Not a drop of petrol
Preparations are already underway to prevent a drop of gasoline from escaping the pipe, says De Vries. “We knew this was coming, so we are now arranging logistics and distribution to meet peak demand.” However, making preparations is a challenge, because “you don’t just get tankers”.
“We try to integrate everything as much as possible”
However, according to the director of NOVE, everything is being done to ensure that petrol station managers will soon not have to say no to the station. “We try to refuel as much as possible, but we also hope that people will come and refuel a few days earlier and not just in advance,” says De Vries. However, some gas stations are expected to run out of gas soon due to the huge demand.
Fairer playing field
De Vries calls it “an eyesore” that the Netherlands has such a high excise tax compared to other European countries. “Because of the high prices, people choose to fill up across borders and this is bad for the economy and for the state treasury.” The director of NOVE therefore calls for stricter agreements at the European level, but it is difficult because each country is responsible for the taxes that are applied. “Perhaps new measures in Brussels will soon create a more level playing field.”