Macron nullifies PM's decision to allow selling fuel at loss

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
25 Sep 2023 09:51

The French President orders fuel producers to sell their products at cost following the Prime Minister's proposal to allow selling fuel at a loss.

French President Emmanuel Macron listens to French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne outside the Louvre museum before a dinner, in Paris, on Friday, July 14, 2023 (AP)

President Emmanuel Macron announced on Sunday that his government would not implement Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne's proposal to sell fuel at a loss.

Instead, to address the escalating fuel crisis, Macron said the government would retain the option of utilizing this measure "as a threat" to encourage cooperation from fuel distributors.

Simultaneously, President Macron ordered fuel producers to sell their products "at cost", TF1 broadcaster reported. Furthermore, the government will provide subsidies amounting to $106 for individuals who heavily rely on their cars for commuting to work.

On September 16, Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne announced that fuel distributors would be allowed to sell gasoline at a loss for several months starting in December in an attempt to address the rising fuel prices.

However, the largest supermarket chains in France refused to sell gasoline at gas stations within their territories at a loss. Additionally, TotalEnergies, the largest French oil-producing company, confirmed that it would not undercut its previously pledged ceiling price of 1.99 euros per liter.

Gasoline prices in France have been on the rise in recent months, exceeding 2 euros per liter at a number of gas stations. Earlier this month, Paris drivers told RIA Novosti that they could no longer afford to fill up a full tank, adding that owning a personal car was becoming unprofitable.