Italy’s state-controlled energy company, Eni, has implemented a 30-day cap on fuel prices at its stations, effective from Monday. The cap sets maximum prices at €2.19 per litre for diesel and €1.99 for unleaded petrol, aimed at alleviating the financial burden on households and businesses as fuel prices surge due to geopolitical tensions related to the Iran conflict. This move reduces the prices by approximately 17 cents per litre compared to the average levels at the time of the announcement.
Meanwhile, truck drivers in Sicily have announced plans for a five-day strike from October 16 to 20, protesting the high fuel costs and the government’s perceived inaction on their demands. The dissatisfaction extends to taxi drivers, who have also expressed concerns over rising fuel prices and warned that they might consider industrial action if the government does not engage with them in discussions.
In a parallel development, Azerbaijan’s state-owned energy company SOCAR plans to introduce similar fuel price limits at its IP petrol stations across Italy, contributing to broader efforts to mitigate the impact of increased fuel costs.
In addition to these measures, the Italian government has enacted a reduction in diesel duties as part of its strategy to manage fuel expenses. However, this tax reduction is set to expire in early October, adding further urgency to the situation.