Spain hauliers demand diesel aid as oil jumps 80%
Spain's hauliers are pressing for fresh diesel aid from October as fuel costs bear down on the industry. The National Federation of Transport Associations of Spain, known as Fenadismer, has asked for an urgent meeting in Madrid with Economy, Trade and Enterprise Minister Carlos Cuerpo. It wants a new direct-payment scheme for transport operators, saying the current tax relief has not reduced what drivers pay at the pump.
Fenadismer says aid must reach the tanks of lorries and buses in a real and visible way. It is calling for the existing system to be radically changed, with a new way of monitoring the support.
Tax cut 'swallowed' by oil firms
The federation says oil companies absorbed the tax cut that took effect in September in their commercial margins. As a result, it says diesel did not fall by the planned 10 cents per litre on any day.
Fenadismer says public money intended to protect productive businesses should not end up as extra profits for large energy companies. It argues that the present model has failed to ease the pressure on transport operators.
Oil rise puts firms under pressure
The group describes conditions in the transport sector as critical. It estimates that oil has risen 80% since the start of the year, from $60 a barrel in early January to more than $110 now.
Fenadismer expects the trend to continue in the coming months. It warns that the rise in operating costs threatens the economic survival of thousands of self-employed drivers and transport companies.
Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com