Many Dutch people are experiencing financial difficulties due to petrol prices

The price per liter of petrol and other fuels at the pump has risen sharply recently. The ANWB is now calling on the cabinet not to increase excise taxes on fuel. “The taxes and the basic pump price are no longer in proportion to each other,” says the advocacy group. This causes financial difficulties for many Dutch people.

When war broke out in Ukraine and prices at the pump rose sharply, the government intervened by cutting excise taxes. On July 1st, part of this consumption tax reduction expired. The second part must be restored by January 1, 2024.

The Dutch are in financial difficulties due to petrol prices

At least that is the government’s plans. If the ANWB had its way, the tax on gasoline and other fuels would not be increased.

The organization conducted research among 1,200 members. This shows that more than a quarter are experiencing financial difficulties as they find it increasingly difficult to pay their fuel costs. 26 percent of those surveyed say they have now had to save on other expenses in order to be able to pay for gas. The majority, almost three quarters, rely on savings. Others spend less on vacations, trips, eating out or groceries.

More than a quarter say they want to save on car maintenance. Not only does this increase the likelihood of breakdowns and more expensive repairs. A technically good car also often has lower fuel consumption than the same car that has been poorly or poorly maintained. Read here how you can save fuel.