The French government has announced a series of measures to address rising fuel prices, driven in particular by the war in the Middle East and tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz (French government statement, 21/05/2026). The total support package amounts to EUR710m, in addition to the EUR470mn already announced. The assistance is structured around targeted measures.
Existing support schemes for sectors such as fishing, transport, construction, and agriculture will be extended by three months until the end of August 2026. The support will also be extended to other sectors (public sector, home care services, chemicals, taxis) :
- Taxi drivers will receive a new bonus to help finance the purchase of electric vehicles.
- In addition to fuel pump support, farmers will receive assistance for the purchase of fertilisers.
- The government also plans to put forward a support proposal for the chemical industry, including fertiliser production.
- Companies will also be allowed to double a tax-free commuting bonus for employees who drive to work, increasing the maximum benefit to EUR600.
The French Prime Minister also stated that France should rely on one of its key competitive advantages, its nuclear fleet, which generates more than two-thirds of the country’s electricity and accelerate the electrification of heating and transport systems.
Unlike several other European countries, France has ruled out reducing fuel taxes, despite oil prices rising above USD100/bbl following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing constraints linked to one of the eurozone’s largest budget deficits (Reuters, 21/05/2026). In addition, the government confirmed that it excludes any general reduction in fuel taxes, considering such a measure too costly for public finances and inconsistent with its energy transition objectives.
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