In response to soaring fuel prices linked to tensions surrounding the Iran conflict, Italy’s state-controlled energy company Eni has implemented a 30-day cap on fuel costs at its stations. Effective Monday, the price cap sets maximum charges at €2.19 per litre for diesel and €1.99 for unleaded petrol, approximately 17 cents per litre lower than recent average levels. This measure aims to alleviate financial pressure on Italian households and businesses.
The move comes as Sicilian truck drivers plan a five-day strike from October 16 to 20, protesting high fuel costs and a perceived lack of governmental engagement with their concerns. Taxi drivers have similarly expressed dissatisfaction, threatening potential industrial action if their calls for dialogue with the government are not addressed.
Adding to efforts to manage rising fuel expenses, Azerbaijan’s state-owned energy company SOCAR has announced plans to impose similar price limits at its IP petrol stations across Italy. This initiative complements the Italian government’s separate measures, including a temporary reduction in diesel duties, which is set to expire in early October.
The collective actions of Eni, SOCAR, and the Italian government highlight a concerted effort to mitigate the impact of elevated fuel prices on the economy, amidst growing unrest among essential service providers like truck and taxi drivers.