The Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, will stop so-called fuel tourism from Friday. As Hungarian Chancellery Minister Gergely Gulyas announced on Thursday, only vehicles with Hungarian number plates will then be able to refuel with petrol or diesel for the cheap unit price of 480 forints (1.24 euros) for a litre.
According to Gulyas, the price of gas in Hungary is the cheapest compared to other European countries, which has led to visible “fuel tourism” at the gas stations in the border regions.
“Abolition of Abuse”
This measure was taken in the interest of “abolishing abuse”, the minister emphasized. However, Hungary is likely to violate the EU’s principle of equal treatment with this measure.
While in Austria a liter of petrol currently costs 1.80 to 2 euros, in Hungary a liter of petrol can cost up to 480 forints, the equivalent of about 1.24 euros, thanks to the upper limit set by the local government. Compared to Austria, you can easily save 30 to 40 euros per tank filling (depending on the tank size).
Fuel prices capped in Slovenia
In another neighboring country of Austria, in Slovenia. fuel prices were capped on May 11. Since then, a liter of regular petrol at the gas stations may cost a maximum of 1.56 euros, diesel 1.668. The capped prices should apply for three months, ie until August 10.
Hungary introduces new special taxes for many sectors
Hungary is also introducing new special taxes for certain sectors. Banks, insurance companies, energy companies, retail chains, telecom companies, airlines, pharmaceutical companies and the advertising industry are affected, Economic Development Minister Marton Nagy said Thursday. The industries mentioned would bring “additional profits,” the minister added. The special taxes should be paid this year and next. The Orban government expects this to generate an income of 800 billion forints (2.1 billion euros). The banks alone would be good for 300 billion forints.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
