Finnish government approves 60 million euro fuel relief package

The Finnish government has reached an agreement on a 60 million euro relief package to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices. The measures are primarily aimed at the transport and agricultural sectors, as well as commuters.

Of the total package, 30 million euros will be allocated to fuel support for the transport and agricultural industries. Another 20 million euros is designated for a permanent reduction in the basic vehicle tax to lower costs for motorists. The remaining 10 million euros will be used to increase the upper limit of the commuting expense deduction from 7,000 to 7,800 euros for the coming year.

To fund these measures, the government will redirect 40 million euros from unused funds previously allocated for carbon capture projects and 20 million euros from basic road maintenance funding. This diversion of road maintenance funds has drawn criticism from political figures and industry organizations, such as SKAL, who argue that while the relief is helpful, it may lead to deteriorating road conditions.