Spain inflation hits 4.25% as rent cap calls grow

Spain’s inflation stands at 4.25%, with dearer energy products behind the August rise. On Thursday, 17 September, the government met employers and unions in Madrid as its current response measures to the war in Iran near their 30 September expiry date. Labour Minister Yolanda Díaz called for rent limits, a levy on oil refining and the return of the so-called Iberian exception.

The inflation rate is seven tenths of a percentage point higher than in July, according to the Economy Ministry. Fuel prices have again added pressure six months after the conflict began.

Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the government would work on continued support for families facing rising prices. He singled out transport and the agri-food sector, saying higher costs there affect the rest of the supply chain.

No new measures have yet been agreed. Ministers will meet affected sectors again next week to assess the situation and judge what support may be needed.

Díaz said families should not bear the cost of another crisis. The unions Unión General de Trabajadores and Comisiones Obreras also want existing protection kept in place and extended.

Comisiones Obreras is seeking a payment of at least €300 for households below the median income, which it says could help around 10 million people. The union also said a temporary tax cut on petrol and diesel could be considered, but only if it does not increase company profit margins.

Topics: Jobs & labour · Housing · Politics · Economy

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com