Luxembourg seeks exemption from Belgian road tax vignette

The Luxembourg government is seeking an exemption from a proposed Belgian road tax vignette for border zones to protect the economic vitality of the Greater Region. In response to parliamentary inquiries, Luxembourgish ministers Yuriko Backes and Xavier Bettel stated that while they recognize Belgian sovereignty over road policy, they have requested that Wallonia consider a border zone exempt from the charge.

The Belgian scheme, scheduled for implementation in spring 2027, involves a digital vignette for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes. Annual costs are expected to range from €90 for zero-emission vehicles to €125 for older models. Enforcement would utilize camera-based number plate recognition and mobile patrols.

Luxembourg officials expressed concerns that the tax could place an undue burden on residents and workers who commute daily across the border. They also warned of potential negative impacts on local businesses and the risk of traffic shifting toward communal roads to avoid the charges.