Merz promises relief for drivers as German fuel prices hit record highs

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has promised to introduce relief measures for residents in Germany as fuel prices skyrocket this week amid continued global uncertainty. 

Merz promises action over rising fuel prices

At a German Association of Wholesale, Foreign Trade and Services (BGA) event on Tuesday, September 15, Merz said that, thanks to rising petrol and diesel prices this week, “we must act” to help drivers cope with the added cost, reports Tagesschau. 

“For many people who need their cars daily, a breaking point has been reached,” explained Merz at the event. While recognising the need “to take action”, the Chancellor was still unsure exactly what measures will be introduced.

Merz is in “close consultation with the federal government and the states” and will provide updates when a proposal has been agreed “very soon.”

Petrol & diesel prices in Germany on the up

After a summer of relatively fewer oil price spikes as the conflict in the Middle East eased slightly, petrol pumps are once again being hit with significant price hikes. 

On Tuesday, the price of Super E10 premium petrol rose more than 4 cents to an all-time high of 2,30 euros per litre, according to the German Automobile Club (ADAC). Diesel prices are also on the rise again, now averaging 2,422 euros per litre.

“There is no end in sight to this price spiral”, added TagesSchau. While Brent crude oil prices are partly to blame, costing almost 110 US dollars a barrel, the ADAC adds that “greater transparency in pricing along the entire value chain is required.”