Italian government considers urgent excise duty cuts as fuel prices surge
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is accelerating plans for an emergency decree to reduce fuel excise duties as prices peak in Milan.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is pushing to accelerate a government decree to cushion surging fuel prices ahead of the peak summer travel season. Ministers are reviewing potential measures to temporarily reduce excise duties, with proposals under discussion ranging from tax cuts of 7 to 8 cents per litre up to 24.4 cents for diesel.
Debate continues within the coalition over whether to prioritize broader tax reductions or refinance social cards for low-income households, which would cost an estimated €120 million. Fuel costs have continued their upward trajectory across the country, with full-service petrol at individual stations in Milan reaching up to €2.70 per litre. Consumer group Codacons warned that the rising rates will impose substantial financial strain on holidaymakers.
Sources: Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, Il Sole 24 Ore.
How outlets assessed this
- Jul 26, 2026, 02:00 AM UTC
- Corriere della Sera Cautious Highlights coalition funding challenges and doubts over whether tax cuts can go beyond minor relief.
- Il Messaggero Supportive Focuses on Prime Minister Meloni's fast-tracked effort to deliver immediate, substantial excise tax reductions.
Sources
- Il Messaggero — ?Benzina, a Milano il prezzo vola oltre i 2,6 euro al litro. Codacons: «Stangata estiva da 10,8 miliardi»
- Il Sole 24 Ore — Carburanti, ancora spinta al rialzo: a Milano punte oltre i 2,6 euro al litro
- Corriere della Sera — Milano, il distributore di benzina più caro d'Italia (senza self service): «verde» a 2,7 euro al litro. «Meglio farla in autostrada»
Earlier coverage
- Jul 25, 2026, 05:00 PM UTCItalian fuel prices surge as petrol tops 2.6 euros per litre in Milan