French agricultural unions demand higher diesel subsidies

Prices for non-road diesel (GNR) in France have risen above €2 per liter, driven by increased tensions in the Middle East. This surge follows a period in June when prices were around €1.50 per liter.

In response, major agricultural unions, including the FNSEA and Coordination rurale (CR), are pressuring the government for increased financial support. Arnaud Rousseau, president of the FNSEA, has called for the diesel subsidy to be doubled from 15 cents to 30 cents per liter. He also noted that current reimbursement delays are creating cash flow difficulties for farmers ahead of autumn work.

Bertrand Venteau, president of Coordination rurale, has proposed a price cap for GNR at €1 per liter, including excise duties. To fund such measures, the union suggested potential savings from cutting public spending in other sectors, such as the French Biodiversity Agency (OFB) or the Bio Agency.