The French government has recorded a loss of €80 million in fuel tax revenue. This decline is due to changes in motorists' consumption habits in response to soaring prices at the pump. Persistent tensions in the Middle East have led to a sustained rise in oil prices, which has been directly passed on to the prices of unleaded gasoline and diesel.
Motorists who are changing their habits
The French have adapted their behavior by reducing their travel or favoring alternative modes of transport. This shift in habits has resulted in a significant decrease in the volume of fuel sold within the country. The domestic consumption tax on energy products, the main source of tax revenue from fuel sales, is directly impacted by this decline in demand.
A fiscal paradox for the state budget
This unexpected shortfall is putting a strain on public finances at a time when the government is trying to control its budget deficit. The situation illustrates the paradox of energy taxation based on consumption volumes: a price increase encourages energy conservation, but mechanically reduces revenue for the state.
