Portugal and France hit by sharp fuel price hikes

Portugal’s government announced that, despite a temporary cut to the fuel tax (ISP), diesel prices are expected to rise by about 11.5 cents per litre to roughly €1.96 and gasoline by nearly 6 cents to €1.97 next week.

In France, analysts forecast another increase in pump prices, with diesel projected to reach close to €2 per litre and gasoline to climb by about 6.5 cents. At the same time, domestic heating oil prices jumped again, with 1,000 L costing around €1,580, reflecting volatile Brent crude above $85 a barrel amid Middle‑East tensions.

German industry groups highlighted the pressure on motorists. The Zentralverband Deutsches Kraftfahrzeuggewerbe (ZDK) called on the government to keep the CO₂ price at the lower end of the €55‑€65 per tonne band and warned that extra levies would hit commuters and businesses. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul rejected a revival of the fuel rebate, arguing that renewable investment and geopolitical risks require a shift away from fossil fuels. The free‑station association also warned that a planned 2026 reduction in the energy tax could create supply shortages over a holiday weekend.

Belgian media reported that Portugal’s authorities may temporarily reduce the ISP tax if price spikes exceed 10 cents, but the overall tax regime remains unchanged.