The Dutch government has announced a package worth more than €950 million to help households and businesses cope with rising fuel prices prompted by outbreak of armed hostilities between the United States and Iran.
In a statement, authorities in the Netherlands said energy costs are expected to remain high even if tensions in the Middle East ease in the near future. Adding that immediate support would prioritise those most affected, the government recognized that
Households and businesses are already feeling the impact.
An initial €627 million will be directed towards direct compensation measures, while a further €340 million will be made available by reducing business-related charges. These cuts will be partly financed by higher taxes on other goods, particularly alcohol.
At the same time, the Netherlands has activated the first phase of its crisis plan in response to potential fuel shortages. The move comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, disrupting oil shipments and pushing global energy prices higher.
