Austria fuel prices driven by high taxes as businesses seek relief

High fuel prices in Austria are largely driven by taxes and levies rather than oil company profits. Data indicates that for Euro Super 95, approximately 91 cents per liter in Austria consist of state levies. In comparison, while Bulgaria has similar base prices, its levies are only 63 cents per liter, and Sweden maintains the lowest EU levies at roughly 44 cents per liter. The Netherlands and Luxembourg impose even higher taxes than Austria.

In response to rising costs, the WKO Steiermark is calling for government intervention. Diesel prices in Austria have seen significant increases, rising by more than 40 percent since the start of the year. To mitigate the impact on businesses such as construction, carpentry, and transport, the WKO Steiermark has proposed a temporary anti-inflation pact. This proposal suggests a 25-cent per liter refund for demonstrably commercial fuel use between October 1 and December 31, 2026, to prevent businesses from passing full cost increases on to consumers.