Germany News: Merz Announces Fuel Tax Cut

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that oil companies are anticipated to distribute the reduced fuel tax to consumers. The decision comes after discussions among coalition party leaders, aiming to alleviate the strain caused by surging energy prices. The government plans to lower energy taxes on diesel and petrol by approximately 17 cents per liter for a two-month period.

Merz addressed the matter on Monday morning, emphasizing that the adjustment would help ease the burden on drivers and businesses. “This will very quickly improve the situation for motorists and businesses in the country,” he said. The rise in fuel prices has been attributed to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which disrupted the flow of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route.

“This conflict, this war, is the real cause of the problems we also have in our own country,” Merz noted, representing the conservative Christian Democrats.

The announcement follows a meeting with Markus Söder, leader of the Bavarian Christian Social Union, as well as co-leaders Lars Klingbeil and Bärbel Bas from the center-left Social Democrats. Merz also mentioned his collaboration with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul to address the war’s impact on global energy markets.

Other developments include warnings from German retailers that stringent data protection regulations are complicating efforts to reduce shoplifting. Additionally, the effects of a pilot strike at national carrier Lufthansa are being closely monitored. For more updates on these and other stories from Germany, stay tuned.

To view the accompanying video, ensure JavaScript is enabled and consider using a browser compatible with HTML5 video. This update highlights key developments from Germany on April 13, 2026.